BAKU (Reuters) – World leaders speak at the U.N. climate summit in Baku on Wednesday.

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Iran Vice President Shina Ansari (via translator)

> "We hope that the international community, free from political issues, will stand together, exchange knowledge, transfer technology and facilitate accessing financial resources without discrimination, and fully lift unilateral sanctions against countries, particularly the Islamic Republic of Iran.
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> "However, we cannot forget the fact that the current climate situation of the world is the result of the industrial policies of a few developed countries. Developing states shall not be deprived of their right to development because of what others have done.
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> "We emphasize that if this conference intends to prove its goodwill towards a better future for all, it must avoid double standards to achieve meaningful actions by all countries to achieve these goals."

Vatican Secretary of State Cardinal Pietro Paroli

> "A true ecological debt exists, particularly between the global north and south, connected to commercial imbalances affecting the environment and the disproportionate use of natural resources by certain countries over long periods.
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> "Therefore, it is essential to seek a new international financial architecture that is human-centered and based on principles of equity, justice, and solidarity. This architecture must ensure that all countries, especially the poorest and most vulnerable to climate disasters, can pursue both low-carbon and inclusive developmental pathways."

Bahamas Prime Minister Philip Davis

> "Already, catastrophic climate events worldwide have led to significant loss of life, property, and infrastructure. Yet, we persist in responding to these events as though they are merely unfortunate, isolated incidents.
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> "I urge you to look beyond borders: the fires that devour your forests and the hurricanes that devastate our homes are shared tragedies. What we endure, you endure. If we fail to act, our children and grandchildren will bear the burden, their dreams reduced to memories of what could have been."

Greece Prime Minister Mitsotakis

> "Europe and the world must be more honest about the trade-offs involved in the energy transition. While it will lower costs long-term, this transition will not be painless.
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> "We need to weigh carefully between a fast path that may hurt competitiveness and a slower one that allows our industry to adapt and thrive. Our citizens face unprecedented climate shocks; we need more resources to adapt and respond in a timely manner, to save lives and livelihoods. We cannot prepare only for 2050 and neglect the immediate needs of 2024."