September 2009: In a recently released video message, UNFCCC Executive Secretary Yvo de Boer takes stock of international climate change negotiations ahead of the upcoming talks in Bangkok.

Highlighting recent developments, such as a significantly higher emission reduction pledge from the Japanese government, financial support from the European Community including concrete numbers, and China’s stated desire for agreement, he notes that the “international community is gearing up to get the job done.” De Boer expresses optimism that the climate change summit being convened on 22 September 2009 by the UN Secretary-General in New York will deliver strong confirmation of an emerging political will to reach agreement. He points out, however, that the negotiations will not resolve every small detail of every issue under consideration and all sides must trust that a strong political agreement will be the foundation on which countries can build details of systems, markets and mechanisms driving actions to combat climate change. [Video message]