President Barack Obama says European nations have moved faster than the United States on global warming and that he'd like to see America play a greater leadership role.

Obama told reporters at the White House Friday that he has been "very frank and blunt" with Chancellor Angela Merkel in explaining the obstacles that have gotten in the way of climate change efforts at home.

Merkel said developed countries like the United States have an obligation to show leadership on climate change, even though other countries may be more affected. Obama said "we are still working through the framework through which we could lead the international effort." He said he was hopeful the House would pass a global warming bill later Friday, and said that would be a good start.