Statement via email.

WASHINGTON D.C. – In response to the announcement that President Obama would be attending the UN Climate Conference in Copenhagen this December, Rep. Edward J. Markey, Chairman of twin climate and energy panels in the House, released the following statement:

“By putting a serious number for U.S. emission reductions on the table, the President just called the world’s bet and then raised it for our negotiating partners. The President’s attendance in Copenhagen demonstrates his personal commitment to getting a deal that is good for the U.S. and good for our clean energy future. It’s a powerful statement that the U.S. is back, ready to lead the world.

“In the effort to protect the planet from climate change, these are the most significant travel reservations ever made. With one trip to Copenhagen, President Obama will put U.S. leadership back on the map in the fight against carbon pollution.”