The Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat says Russia's decision to back the Kyoto protocol is good news for low-lying island states.
The acting Forum Secretary General Iosefa Maiava says it will be a very important step towards addressing the negative impacts of climate change on such countries.
The Pacific Islands Forum has called for action to reduce greenhouse gas emissions - and for there to be commitments in the future by all major emitters.
Forum Leaders have also sought commitments to a worldwide effort to bring down greenhouse gas emissions.
They have asked the international community to take into account the special circumstances of small island developing states.
