They said it: Leaders at the UN, in their own words

Many leaders expressed their thoughts on various topics that hold significance to them, their regions, and the world at large. This is a typical outcome of the U.N. General Assembly each year.

Every year, certain voices tend to dominate the proceedings. The Associated Press has taken a different approach in this report, highlighting some statements from leaders who may have been overlooked.

Matthew Cooper Wale, the prime minister of Solomon Islands, spoke about climate change, noting that the systems confronting them today are not fueled by hatred, but rather exacerbate existing issues.

Albania's prime minister, Edi Rama, addressed artificial intelligence, warning against the possibility of people being compelled to choose between their homeland and their future.

Tuvalu's prime minister, Feleti Teo, also addressed climate change, emphasizing that people should never be forced to choose between their homeland and their future.

Iraq's prime minister, Christophe Mirmand, highlighted the importance of Iraq in world history, stating that Iraq has never been on the margins and is, rather, the heart of history beating in the modern world.

Monaco's minister of state, Beate Meinl-Reisinger, pointed out that the UN often fails to act on pressing issues, likening this to another meeting without a decision.