Germany, as President of the European Union and Group of Eight, called on top politicians to work together in addressing global warming, which it described as one of the most significant threats facing the world. German Chancellor Angela Merkel emphasized the urgency of taking action on climate change during a security conference in Munich, stating that it is a threat that affects everyone and requires coordinated efforts from all nations. Russian President Vladimir Putin, US Defense Secretary Robert Gates, and US Senator for Arizona John McCain were among the attendees. While the United States, Russia, and China have been hesitant to participate in worldwide initiatives to combat climate change, German Chancellor Angela Merkel has prioritized addressing global warming during Germany's dual EU and G8 presidencies. Merkel aims to encourage countries to decrease greenhouse gas emissions, conserve energy, and transition to renewable fuels. Additionally, she has discussed advancing a framework agreement to reduce greenhouse gases once the Kyoto Protocol expires in 2012. Germany's coalition government, which includes both left-wing and right-wing parties, is divided on various energy policies and has opposed certain European Union proposals aimed at reducing emissions.