"There is progress on a lot of small stuff, but no deals on the big stuff," he said.
There was progress on a number of issues, including a compromise on protecting endangered animals and plants, which calls for a significant reduction in the rate of extinction by 2010.
Mr. Ban said he thought there was progress on a limited number of issues, including deforestation, sharing of technology and financial payments to poorer nations from the developed world to help them overcome the effects of climate change.
Clearly there is progress on a lot of fronts–sexier products, new sales outlets, strength in servers and storage, better customer service.
"I had a terrible last 30 minutes," said Martin, who grimaced as he watched Froome's progress on a TV near the finish line at the picturesque island on the Normandy coast.
"We're satisfied that there has been progress on the currency issue," said Clay Lowery, an assistant secretary of treasury for international affairs.
And happily, there is progress on all three.As well as appealing to the charity of ordinary people, agencies are finding new ways to raise money from lenders.
Work is progressing on a north-south highway between Durban, South Africa, and Dar es Salaam, Tanzania.
United Airlines and the union representing its machinists are progressing on a new contract for 12,800 mechanics and cleaners before a Wednesday strike deadline, the union said.
