WASHINGTON - November 25 - The White House announced today that President Obama will travel to Copenhagen on December  9 to participate in the United Nations climate change summit. His presence will help the international community as it works toward a comprehensive and effective agreement to reduce global warming pollution, according to policy experts at the Natural Resources Defense Council.

Following is a statement by Frances Beinecke, President of NRDC:

"President Obama is taking the full power and prestige of the highest office in the land to Copenhagen. He goes with a serious climate protection proposal from the United States that shows we mean business. It shows we're ready to lead. And it will help advance efforts to secure commitments for action from other countries around the world. We urge Congress to support the President and pass clean energy and climate protection legislation that will put millions of Americans back to work, reduce our reliance on foreign oil and create a healthier future for our country and the world."