The second meeting of the Consultative Group of Experts on National Communications from Parties not included in Annex I to the Convention (CGE), held in Manila, Philippines, on 3 and 4 May 2004, discussed the finalization of the CGE work programme for the period 2004–2007, and modalities for cooperating with other expert groups established under the Convention and the National Communications Support Programme of the United Nations Development Programme, the United Nations Environment Programme and the Global Environment Facility. This report also summarizes discussions relating to the CGE thematic hands-on training workshops, which have been planned for the next two years. The hands-on training was considered to be a critical part of the CGE’s programme of work, but its success will depend on the availability of additional financial resources. The Subsidiary Body for Implementation may wish to take note of this report and provide further guidance to the CGE on the conduct of its work and on how additional financial resources will be made available for the effective implementation of the CGE work programme.