UNGA 80 High-Level Opening, General Debate Week Day 1 - 5 Notes.pdf

wyakab 0 views 18 slides Sep 29, 2025
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About This Presentation

UNGA 80 - Notes taken at the High-Level Opening, General Debate Week Day 1-5
EFOW publication
September 2025


Slide Content

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Notes over UNGA 80 General Debate- Day 1- 5
( "as an example only, and for our open conversations")
Day 1

The President (Trump) Address

At the 80th session of the UN General Assembly (UNGA), President Trump's address focused
on several key issues, reflecting his "America First" foreign policy stance. Based on reports from
earlier today, here are some of the top themes he addressed:
1.​Critique of the UN: He opened with a sharp criticism of the United Nations, claiming that
the organization is not living up to its potential and that his administration has achieved
significant diplomatic successes, such as ending "unendable wars," without any help from
the UN. He also accused the UN of "creating new problems" and supporting illegal
migration.
2.​Immigration and Border Security: A major point was his emphasis on immigration
control. He claimed that illegal crossings into the United States had been reduced to
"zero" in recent months and urged other nations, particularly in Europe, to take a similar
hardline approach. He warned that open-border policies were "ruining" countries. 3.​Economic Achievements: He touted what he described as a "golden age of America,"
highlighting a series of economic achievements under his presidency. This included
claims that energy, gasoline, and grocery prices had dropped, inflation had been
defeated, and the stock market was at a record high. 4.​The "Green Energy Scam": He was highly critical of climate change policies and what
he called the "green energy scam." He warned that nations that commit to expensive
energy projects aimed at reducing their carbon footprint were causing irreparable harm to
their economies and cultures, and he praised "clean, beautiful coal." 5.​Foreign Policy and Global Standing: Trump framed his foreign policy as a justification
for his actions, highlighting what he described as unprecedented achievements on the
world stage. He asserted that the U.S. was "blessed with the strongest economy, border,
military, friendships, and spirit" and that domestic stability and international influence were
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6.​The Gaza Conflict and Hostage Release: He addressed the ongoing war in Gaza,
demanding that Hamas release the remaining hostages. He also criticized Western allies
like Canada and Australia for formally recognizing a Palestinian state, stating that such a
move would embolden Hamas. 7.​The Russia-Ukraine War: While he said he hoped to end the conflict, he did not directly
criticize Russia. Instead, he placed the onus on European nations to "step it up" and stop
buying Russian oil.
8.​"Globalist Institutions": He took aim at "globalist institutions" and argued that they have
"decayed the world order." This was a continuation of his "America First" posture.
9.​Biological Weapons and AI: He mentioned leading an international effort to stop the
manufacturing of biological weapons and pioneering an AI verification system to achieve
that end.
10.​Free Speech and Religious Liberty: He urged other nations to celebrate principles like
free speech and religious liberty, claiming that Christianity is the most persecuted religion.

Reactions from Political Leaders and Media- from around the
world

Given the nature of a UNGA address and the wide range of political and media landscapes,
reactions vary significantly. The following is a summary of key reactions and sentiments from
political leaders and reputable media in the specified regions to President Trump's address at
the UNGA 80 session. Key Themes of Trump's Address
Before diving into the reactions, it's important to understand the core messages of the speech.
Trump's address was characterized by an "America First" and nationalistic tone. Key themes
included:
●​Critique of the UN: He challenged the purpose and effectiveness of the United Nations,
describing it as "feckless" and "not even coming close to living up to its potential."
●​Immigration: He strongly condemned what he called "uncontrolled migration" and "open
borders," warning other countries that they were "going to hell" because of their
immigration policies.
●​"Green Energy" and Climate Change: He dismissed climate change efforts as a "green
scam" and warned that nations pursuing a "green energy agenda" were "on the brink of
destruction."
●​Russian Oil and Ukraine: He accused India and China of being the "primary funders" of
the war in Ukraine due to their continued purchase of Russian oil. He also admonished
European nations for doing the same, stating they were "funding the war against
themselves." ●​Boasting of Achievements: He used the platform to tout his administration's
accomplishments, including claims of ending seven international conflicts and improving
the U.S. economy.
Reactions from Key Regions
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●​Political Leaders: There has been no immediate, formal reaction from top political
leaders in either China or India. However, the accusation that they are "primary funders"
of the Ukraine war by purchasing Russian oil is a significant point of contention. Both
nations have consistently defended their energy trade with Russia on the grounds of
national interest and economic necessity. The accusation from Trump is likely to be
viewed as an attempt to pressure them and could create diplomatic friction.
●​Media: Indian and Chinese state and major media outlets highlighted the direct criticism
from Trump regarding their Russian oil purchases. The coverage would likely frame this
as an unfair and unilateral demand from the U.S., ignoring the complex global economic
landscape.
Russia
●​Political Leaders: While there's no official statement, the sentiment from Russia is likely
to be a mix of satisfaction and condemnation. The critique directed at Europe for its
reliance on Russian energy could be seen as an acknowledgment of Russia's strategic
leverage. However, the overall anti-multilateral and "America First" stance aligns with
some of Russia's own foreign policy instincts, which seek to diminish the influence of
international bodies.
Middle East (Saudi Arabia, Iran, Qatar)
●​Saudi Arabia & Qatar: The primary focus for these nations would be on the mention of a
potential deal to end the war in Gaza. While Trump held a multilateral meeting with
leaders from Arab and Muslim countries on this topic, the lack of specific details in his
main address means that reactions would be cautious. The sentiment is likely to be a
wait-and-see approach, with a focus on any potential U.S. moves that could impact
regional stability and the ongoing conflict.
●​Iran: The reaction from Iran would be highly critical and condemnatory. Trump's past
actions and recent U.S. airstrikes would be highlighted as examples of unilateralism and
aggression. His mention of Iran would be seen as part of a continued policy of hostility.
Iranian media would likely portray the speech as a clear sign of continued U.S.
belligerence and a threat to regional peace.
Turkey
●​Political Leaders: President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, who also spoke at the UNGA, often
presents a different vision for global order. While his direct reaction to Trump's speech is
not public, his own remarks and those of other leaders from Muslim states after the
address would likely offer a counter-narrative, emphasizing the need for multilateralism
and international cooperation.
●​Media: Turkish media, depending on their political alignment, would either be critical of
Trump's nationalist rhetoric or, if pro-government, might find some common ground in his
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critique of "globalist institutions."
Latin America
●​Political Leaders: Several Latin American leaders, such as Colombian President
Gustavo Petro, have used their own UNGA speeches to directly or indirectly critique the
U.S. and its foreign policy. Petro, for instance, has settled scores with the Trump
administration over decertification of Colombia's anti-drug efforts. The overall sentiment
from leftist leaders would be a strong rejection of the "America First" doctrine and a call
for a more cooperative, less interventionist global order.
●​Media: Media in the region would highlight the direct and indirect critiques of Trump's
policy. The focus would be on how his approach could impact trade, migration, and drug
policies in the hemisphere.
Africa
●​Political Leaders & Media: The reaction from African nations would be cautious and
varied. The broad themes of Trump's speech—such as immigration and trade—could be
concerning. However, without a specific, direct focus on African nations in the speech, the
primary response would be a general concern about the decline of multilateralism and a
potential shift away from international aid and cooperation. The focus would be on what
the U.S. position means for development aid, climate change initiatives, and security
partnerships.
Egypt
●​Political Leaders & Media: Egypt, as a key U.S. partner, would be in a difficult position.
While they rely on U.S. support, Trump's unilateralist rhetoric and unpredictable policy
could be a source of concern. The reaction would likely be muted and diplomatic, focusing
on the need for continued cooperation on regional security issues, such as the conflict in
Gaza.
Japan
●​Political Leaders & Media: Japanese leaders would be concerned by the "America First"
rhetoric, which could impact trade relations and security alliances. While Japan is a close
U.S. ally, the emphasis on unilateralism and criticism of global institutions would create
unease about the future of the alliance and the stability of the Indo-Pacific region.
Indonesia
●​Political Leaders: As a large Muslim-majority nation, Indonesia's response would be
focused on the conflict in Gaza and Trump's comments on the issue. The Indonesian
president, Prabowo Subianto, would likely use his own address to counter any narratives
that he sees as unhelpful to a peaceful resolution. His position would likely align with the Made with Google Gemini
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broader sentiment in the Muslim world, emphasizing a push for a more just and
cooperative global system.
Disclaimer: This analysis is based on available information from reputable media and political
reactions. Given the rapid and ongoing nature of news, a more detailed and nuanced picture will
emerge over time.



Reactions on Clean Energy and Climate Stance- by the
President

Based on President Trump's address at the UNGA 80 session and his strong stance against
climate action and clean energy, the reactions from key scientists, environmental leaders, and
those involved in climate agreements have been overwhelmingly critical and condemnatory.
Here is a summary of the key reactions and sentiments:
1. The Scientific Community
Scientists and climate experts have reacted with a mix of dismay and firm rebuttal, directly
contradicting Trump's claims.
●​Rejection of "Con Job" Label: Scientists have universally dismissed Trump's
characterization of climate change as a "con job," "scam," or "hoax." They point to the
overwhelming scientific consensus that human activity is the primary driver of climate
warming. ●​Emphasis on Lived Reality: Climate scientists noted that while Trump may call climate
change a "fake catastrophe," millions of people worldwide are already experiencing its
real-world impacts, from more extreme weather events to rising sea levels. Leaders from
nations vulnerable to these effects, such as small island states, were present in the
audience, underscoring the disconnect between Trump's rhetoric and global reality.
●​"Cherry-Picking" and Misinformation: Scientists accused Trump of cherry-picking facts
and figures to support his anti-climate agenda. They pointed to the fact that his
administration's own Department of Energy report had been denounced by more than 85
scientists for misrepresenting data to downplay the economic damage of climate change.
2. Clean Energy and Environmental Movement Leaders
Leaders of environmental NGOs, clean energy advocates, and climate action groups have been
sharply critical of Trump's address, framing it as a dangerous and backward-looking position.
●​Fossil Fuel Bias: Environmental groups like Oil Change International have highlighted
that Trump's pro-fossil fuel stance is out of step with global economic and technological
trends. They pointed to the fact that renewables are now the cheapest source of new
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energy worldwide, and that a continued reliance on fossil fuels would keep the U.S. "stuck
in a destructive, expensive energy system that belongs to the past."
●​"Disruptive and Polarizing" Language: Leaders in the clean energy and environmental
sectors criticized Trump for using "polarizing and divisive language" that misrepresents
the environmental message. They argue that his rhetoric pits people against each other to
distract from the profits of the fossil fuel industry. ●​Connecting Climate and Migration: Environmental leaders noted that Trump's attacks
on both "green energy" and immigration were linked, seeing them as a single, dangerous
worldview. They emphasize that climate change is a key driver of migration, and that a
"just and sustainable future" requires addressing both issues together.
3. Leaders of Climate Agreements and International Bodies
Leaders from other nations and international organizations, including the UN itself, offered a
starkly different vision, often in direct contrast to Trump's.
●​Counter-Narratives from UNGA Speakers: Other world leaders speaking at the UNGA,
such as French President Emmanuel Macron and Indonesian President Prabowo
Subianto, used their platforms to directly or indirectly counter Trump's position. They
emphasized the need for a more cooperative global order and reaffirmed their
commitment to climate goals like the Paris Agreement.
●​"Slogans vs. Action": Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto, for instance, stated that
his country is "already experiencing the direct consequences of climate change" and
would "confront climate change not by slogans, but by immediate steps." This was a clear
rebuke of Trump's rhetoric. ●​Reaffirmation of the Paris Agreement: Despite Trump's past withdrawal from and
renewed condemnation of the Paris Agreement, leaders from other countries, including
Brazil, have used the UNGA as a platform to reaffirm their commitment to it and their
national net-zero goals, showing a clear divide in global priorities.
Other Statements made by other Heads of State- at the
Opening

The 80th session of the UN General Assembly (UNGA 80) General Debate, held yesterday,
September 23, 2025, in New York, centered on the theme "Better together: 80 years and more
for peace, development and human rights." The speeches and high-level meetings reflected a
world grappling with multiple crises, with leaders emphasizing the urgent need for renewed
international cooperation and multilateralism.
Here is a summary of the key messages by topic:
Peace and International Cooperation
●​Renewed commitment to multilateralism: A central message from many leaders,
including the EU and Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre, was the need to
reaffirm and strengthen international law and the UN Charter. They stressed that in an
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increasingly interconnected and polarized world, multilateralism is the most effective way
to govern global relations and solve shared challenges.
●​A call to choose peace: UN Secretary-General António Guterres urged nations to
choose peace rooted in international law, warning that "impunity is the mother of chaos."
He and other leaders highlighted the need for a peaceful resolution to ongoing conflicts,
including a "viable two-state solution" for sustainable peace in the Middle East and a call
to de-escalate tensions in Ukraine.
●​Fighting poverty, not wars: A recurring theme was the paradoxical increase in global
military spending at a time when the world is falling behind on development goals. South
African President Cyril Ramaphosa and others called for a decisive shift in priorities,
stating that nations should be fighting poverty and developing livelihoods, not fighting
wars.
●​Security Council reform: Turkish President Erdoğan reiterated his long-standing call for
a review of the UN's structure, particularly the Security Council, arguing that "the world is
bigger than five" and that the fate of humanity should not rest with a small number of
permanent members. UN and UNSDGs
●​The need for a reformed UN: Many speakers acknowledged the UN is at a critical
juncture and needs to be more agile, cost-effective, and fit-for-purpose. There were calls
for comprehensive reforms of the UN system, including the Security Council and
international financial institutions. ●​Accelerating progress on the SDGs: Leaders stressed the urgency of delivering on the
Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), noting that many of these goals remain elusive.
The UN Global Compact Leaders Summit and other high-level events were held to review
the private sector's contribution and strengthen collaboration to implement the 2030
Agenda.
●​Financing for development: A key message was the need to reform the international
financial architecture to better support development for all. This includes making
Multilateral Development Banks bigger and bolder to lend and leverage more private
investment for SDG projects. Climate Action and the Natural Environment
●​Climate crisis as an existential threat: The climate crisis was widely identified as an
existential threat that is reversing economic gains, particularly in the Global South. UN
officials and leaders underscored the urgency of drastic emission reductions and a shift to
a clean energy era. ●​Calls for climate justice: Leaders from the Global South pointed out that while they bear
the least responsibility for climate change, they suffer its harshest effects. There were
calls for greater financial support from affluent countries for climate adaptation,
conservation, and a just energy transition. ●​Differing approaches: While many leaders advocated for strong climate action and a
transition to renewables, some, like U.S. President Donald Trump, expressed a
preference for turning away from climate change policies and emphasized a focus on
domestic matters. Trade and Economy
●​Reforming the multilateral trading system: Leaders highlighted the need to reform the
multilateral trading system, emphasizing that the World Trade Organization (WTO) is the
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only body capable of managing global trade differences.
●​Trade as a development tool: There was a strong message that trade is a critical
instrument for mobilizing domestic resources for development. However, speakers also
expressed concern that geopolitical shocks and trade policy volatility are destabilizing the
global economy and jeopardizing development financing. ●​Economic coercion: Some leaders, such as President Ramaphosa, condemned
unilateral trade practices and economic coercion, specifically calling for an end to the
economic embargo against Cuba.




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Day 2

The second day of the UNGA 80 General Debate, held yesterday, September 24, 2025, was
dominated by geopolitical flashpoints and a renewed focus on global crises, particularly climate
change, as the day also featured a crucial Climate Summit. The key messages from the listed
countries—Spain, Ukraine, Iran, Panama, Switzerland, Latvia, Kenya, Estonia, Argentina, Syria,
Cyprus, Finland, and Sierra Leone—reaffirmed the need for multilateralism but highlighted deep
divisions on how to achieve global goals.
Here is a summary of the key messages by topic, including the major points made by the US
President (who spoke on Day 1 but whose remarks heavily influenced the debate).
Key Messages by Topic
1. Trump and the Challenge to Globalism
While US President Donald Trump spoke on Day 1, his message of "sovereignty over
globalism" cast a long shadow over Day 2's debate. His main points, which were directly or
indirectly rebutted by many leaders:
●​Climate Action: He heavily criticized "green energy" as a "scam" and called the concept
of a "carbon footprint a hoax," asserting that climate policies were designed to "inflict pain"
on industrialized nations.
●​Trade: He championed punitive tariffs as a necessary tool to address unfair trade
practices by countries he claims broke the rules.
●​UN and International Cooperation: He was highly critical of the UN's effectiveness,
questioning its purpose and claiming the US had to solve major conflicts ("unendable
wars") that the UN could not.
2. Peace and International Cooperation
The theme of the day was the necessity of international law and multilateralism, often as a direct
counterpoint to Trump's message.
●​Ukraine (President Volodymyr Zelenskyy): Delivered a passionate address, asserting
that "We have no choice but to fight," and stressing that victory is the only path to a just
and sustainable peace. He called for unified global support, condemning Russia's
aggression as an attack on the entire UN Charter. ●​Cyprus (President Nikos Christodoulides): Focused on the urgent need for a peaceful
resolution to the Cyprus problem based on UN resolutions, emphasizing respect for
international law and sovereignty against external interference.
●​Finland (President Alexander Stubb): Strongly affirmed the defense of international
rules, particularly emphasizing that the foundation of a peaceful world rests on adherence
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to the UN Charter and the prohibition of the use of force.
●​Spain (King Don Felipe VI): Called for a renewed global commitment to the values of the
UN Charter, highlighting the need for collective security and cooperation to manage
complex global crises.
●​**Syria (President Ahmad Al-Sharaa): Demanded an end to all unilateral sanctions,
arguing they inflict immense suffering on the Syrian people and hinder national renewal
efforts, while affirming the country's sovereignty.
3. UN and UNSDGs
Leaders stressed that the UN system is crucial but in urgent need of reform to address current
challenges.
●​**Kenya (President William Samoei Ruto): Strongly argued that the UN Security Council is
an anachronism and demanded a permanent African seat to ensure that the continent's
voice is heard on issues of peace and security. He called for a major reform of the global
financial architecture to make it more equitable. ●​**Sierra Leone (President Julius Maada Bio): Emphasized that "Small states are not
inherently small. Our sovereignty is equal, and our responsibilities are the same."
He championed the importance of the rule of law as the best defense against the "rule of
the strongest," stressing that leadership must be the "clearest voice for justice." ●​**Panama (President José Raúl Mulino Quintero): Expressed a need for a reformed UN
that is more agile and capable of preventing conflicts and responding to humanitarian
emergencies, supporting the UN 80 initiative for organizational reform.
4. Climate Action and the Natural Environment (Climate Summit Focus)
With a major Climate Summit being held concurrently on Day 2, climate action was a dominant
theme.
●​Latvia (President Edgars Rinkēvičs) and Estonia (President Alar Karis): Stressed the
need for urgent, science-based global climate action, emphasizing the solidarity of the
European Union in achieving carbon neutrality goals and investing in green innovation.
●​Kenya (President William Samoei Ruto): Elevated the voice of the Global South on
climate change, calling for climate justice and a reform of international financial
institutions to better fund climate adaptation and transition in developing nations.
●​Finland (President Alexander Stubb): Highlighted the need for global cooperation on
both climate action and the protection of biodiversity, emphasizing the role of sustainable
and green technologies.
5. Trade and Economy
The debate reflected deep divisions on the global economic order, with some calling for
liberalization and others for greater sovereignty.
●​**Argentina (President Javier Gerardo Milei): Delivered a strong message, likely criticizing
globalist economic policies and potentially touting a radical economic reform agenda
centered on free-market capitalism and a reduction in state intervention. (Specific
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details often highlight a focus on domestic economic health and deregulation.)
●​**Switzerland (President Karin Keller-Sutter): Advocated for the predictability and stability
of international law and a rules-based multilateral trading system as essential for
global economic prosperity and stability, reaffirming Switzerland's commitment to
humanitarian principles.
6. Iran (President Masoud Pezeshkian)
●​Nuclear and Security: Reasserted that "Iran has never sought and will never seek to
build a nuclear bomb," a statement designed to counter international concerns. He
strongly criticized the unilateral sanctions imposed on his country, framing them as a
violation of international law and a source of economic hardship. He called for
de-escalation in the Middle East and dialogue based on mutual respect.



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Day 3

The third day (Day 3) of the UNGA 80 General Debate, held yesterday, September 25, 2025,
was characterized by fervent calls for peace, justice, and the revitalization of
multilateralism, particularly in the face of escalating conflicts and an eroding trust in the
international system. The debate saw strong emphasis on the question of Palestine, the dire
humanitarian situation in conflict zones, and the critical need to finance development goals.
Here is a summary of the key messages by topic, featuring the statements from the specified
world leaders:
Key Messages by Topic
1. Peace and International Cooperation
●​**Palestine (President Mahmoud Abbas): Delivered a highly emotional address, rejecting
the "horrific acts" by Hamas but urgently calling for the world to recognize Palestinian
statehood and guarantee full UN membership. He stressed that a two-state solution
based on 1967 borders is the only path to peace and stability in the Middle East. ●​Yemen: Called for "firm international action" to counter the global threat posed by the
Houthis, emphasizing the need for regional security and an end to the prolonged conflict
that has caused immense human suffering.
●​UK (Prime Minister): Affirmed the UK's commitment to standing against aggression and
defending international law, specifically mentioning support for Ukraine and condemning
the "horrific acts by Hamas." A key focus was on the need for concerted diplomatic action
to end the Gaza conflict, free the hostages, and ensure humanitarian aid reaches
civilians.
●​Sudan (Representative): Detailed the devastating impact of the internal conflict, calling
on the international community to provide urgent humanitarian support and exert pressure
on all warring factions to return to a political process and ensure civilian protection.
2. UN and International Cooperation (Multilateralism)
●​EU (Representative): Stressed that the EU remains a steadfast champion of effective
multilateralism and the UN Charter. The message was to stand firm against any
"disregard for our Charter" and to prioritize a UN that defends the rights of every nation
and focuses on securing peace and driving sustainable development. ●​Netherlands (Prime Minister Dick Schoof): Reinforced the theme "Better Together,"
stating, "If the UN's 80 years have taught us anything, it's that all the big issues are
closely interlinked." He called for the UN to adapt and reform to remain legitimate and
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●​Gambia: Emphasized the need for a reformed and more equitable UN Security
Council that reflects the diversity of the world, echoing the broader Global South's
demand for greater representation.
●​Liechtenstein: Advocated for strengthening the UN's capacity for accountability,
particularly regarding serious international crimes, underscoring the importance of the
International Criminal Court (ICC) and the enforcement of international humanitarian
law.
3. UNSDGs, Trade, and Economy
●​Ghana: Stressed the urgency of delivering on the Sustainable Development Goals
(SDGs), noting that the world will only meet the challenge of development "if it first wins
the challenge of peace." Ghana also rejected the politicization of development
cooperation used for "partisan political reasons," urging a transition from aid to fair
trade to ensure developing countries can enjoy "a win-win relationship."
●​Rwanda: Focused on the importance of domestic-led economic transformation and
self-reliance, emphasizing that development must be inclusive and sustainable, powered
by local efforts and fair global partnerships, not just aid.
●​Mexico: Focused on human mobility as one of the "most complex challenges of our time,"
calling for safe, orderly, and regular migration pathways. Mexico argued that proper
management of migration can be a contributor to sustainable development.
●​Bolivia: Likely focused on economic sovereignty and the need for new financial
mechanisms that allow developing nations to invest in their people and manage their
resources without the crippling burden of debt.
4. Climate Action and Natural Environment
●​Palau: As a Small Island Developing State (SIDS), Palau delivered a powerful message
on the existential threat of rising sea levels and climate change. The statement
demanded immediate, scaled-up climate finance and the mobilization of the unfulfilled
$100 billion annual fund from developed nations to combat the crisis and protect their
unique biodiversity.
●​Norway and Sweden: As developed countries with strong environmental records, both
nations affirmed their leadership on climate action, emphasizing the acceleration of the
green transition, the protection of wildlife and biodiversity, and the necessity of
transparent climate finance mechanisms.
5. Response to Trump
Though Trump spoke on Day 1, his critique of "globalism" and his anti-climate stance were
implicitly rebuffed:
●​Leaders from the EU, Netherlands, Norway, and Sweden strongly countered the
narrative that global institutions and climate action are a "scam" or "hoax," asserting that a
rules-based order and multilateralism are the best defense against a world ruled by the
"strongest" and are necessary to solve trans-border crises.
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●​The calls from Ghana and Rwanda for an economic system built on fair trade and
mutual respect implicitly rejected the "transactional" and unilateral approach to trade
championed by the US President.



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Day 4

The fourth day (Day 4) of the UNGA 80 General Debate, held yesterday, September 26, 2025,
featured some of the most anticipated and contentious speeches, dominated by the Middle East
conflict and the need to defend multilateralism against rising isolationism. The key messages
centered on the existential need for a rules-based order, especially for small states, and urgent
financing for development and climate action.
Here is a summary of the key messages by topic, featuring the statements from the specified
world leaders:
Key Messages by Topic
1. Peace and International Cooperation
●​**Israel (Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu): Delivered a highly controversial speech,
with many delegates walking out in protest. Netanyahu defended Israel's intensified
military actions in Gaza, vowing to "finish the job" against Hamas. He framed the war as
a necessary struggle against terrorism and existential threats, while downplaying
international pressure for a ceasefire and rejecting the international push for immediate
Palestinian statehood. He used props and sharp rhetoric to accuse adversaries of seeking
Israel's destruction.
●​**Pakistan (Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif): Delivered a strong condemnation of Israel's
actions, referring to the situation in Gaza as a "genocidal onslaught" and a "shameful
campaign." He urged urgent action for a lasting peace in the Middle East and South Asia,
stressing the need for a sovereign Palestinian state based on pre-1967 borders and
rejecting the prolonged "brutal occupation" of the West Bank.
●​Ireland (Taoiseach Micheál Martin): Took a firm stand against Israel, calling for the
international community to isolate and hold Israel accountable for alleged war crimes
in Gaza. He announced specific measures, such as preventing Israeli government
members instrumental in the disaster from entering Ireland, and committed to working
with partners to end the "human catastrophe."
●​**Greece (Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis): Expressed deep concern over regional
instability, stressing the need for diplomatic de-escalation in the Eastern Mediterranean
and affirming a commitment to international law as the bedrock of peaceful coexistence.
●​Venezuela (Representative): Likely used the platform to condemn what it views as
"isolationist policies" and unilateral sanctions imposed by major powers, particularly
the U.S. The message typically focuses on the defense of national sovereignty and the
right to choose one's own development model. ●​Bahrain: Likely focused on the need for a comprehensive and sustainable solution to
the Israeli-Palestinian conflict to ensure regional stability, emphasizing a commitment to
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Gulf cooperation and security.
2. UN and International Cooperation (The Rules-Based Order)
●​**China (Premier Li Qiang): Delivered a powerful message calling for solidarity, peace,
and the defense of multilateralism. Li warned that "Unilateralism and Cold War
mentality are resurfacing," which seriously challenges the international rules and order
built over the past 80 years. He asserted that only when all countries, big or small, are
treated as equals can global peace be secured.
●​**Barbados (Prime Minister Mia Amor Mottley): Stressed that the survival of small
states and global peace depends on preserving a rules-based international system.
Mottley is a leading voice for comprehensive reform of the global financial architecture
and global governance to give vulnerable nations a fairer voice. ●​New Zealand: Championed the need for cooperation on security and development,
emphasizing that the UN, despite its imperfections, remains an "unrivalled global arena"
for seeking solutions to common challenges.
3. UNSDGs, Climate Action, and Economy
●​**Bangladesh (Chief Adviser of the interim Government): Highlighted the urgent need for
action on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), noting that more than 80\% of
targets remain off-track and citing an estimated financing gap of $4 trillion per
annum. Bangladesh, highly vulnerable to climate change, also emphasized the
humanitarian crisis of the Rohingya refugees and the devastating impacts of climate
change on its economy.
●​Barbados (Prime Minister Mia Mottley): Reaffirmed her commitment to climate finance
reform, stressing the need to unlock capital for climate adaptation. She is a prominent
advocate for the Bridgetown Initiative, which seeks to fundamentally reform the global
lending system to better serve the needs of developing nations facing climate shocks. ●​New Zealand: Continued its push for climate action, particularly focusing on cutting
methane emissions as a "scalable near-term solution" that could prevent
0.3^\circ\text{C} of warming by the 2040s, providing immediate protection to vulnerable
nations.
4. Response to Trump
The collective statements, particularly from China, Ireland, and Barbados, offered a sharp,
multilateral rebuke to the "America First" and anti-globalist rhetoric of President Trump:
●​Rejecting Isolationism: Chinese Premier Li and Barbados's PM Mottley directly opposed
"isolationist policies," "Cold War mentality," and the notion of "civilizational superiority,"
asserting that a fragmented, rules-free world only breeds chaos and confrontation.
●​Defending Climate Action: The strong focus on climate finance, the $4 trillion SDG
financing gap, and the specific call to cut methane all served as a direct counterpoint to
Trump's earlier dismissal of climate change as a "hoax."

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Day 5
Day 5 of the UNGA 80 General Debate, held yesterday, September 27, 2025, focused heavily
on the ideological divide concerning the global order, with a clear split between Western nations
advocating for a rules-based system and countries like Russia, China, and Cuba condemning
"hegemonism" and demanding reform of global governance. The key takeaway was the urgency
of financial and institutional reform to benefit the Global South.
Key Messages by Topic
1. Peace and International Cooperation
●​Russia (Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov): Used the platform to lambast the West and
condemn what it calls "unilateralism" and the "Cold War mentality." Lavrov stated that
Moscow has no intention of attacking NATO or the EU, but would "decisively rebuff" any
aggression. The speech aimed to position Russia as a leader of the Global South,
pushing back against perceived Western dominance.
●​Germany (Representative): Stressed the vital importance of the rules-based
international order and strongly condemned all forms of aggression, particularly in the
context of the Ukraine war. Germany emphasized the need for accountability and full
adherence to the UN Charter. ●​Cuba (Representative): Reiterated its condemnation of the economic embargo
imposed by the United States, calling it an unscrupulous act of "hegemonism" and
bullying that violates international law and hinders Cuban development.
●​India (Representative): Maintained its focus on promoting dialogue and consultation to
settle differences peacefully. India stressed the interconnectedness of security,
emphasizing that all countries must respect the legitimate security concerns of others.
●​**Saudi Arabia, Oman, United Arab Emirates (UAE), and Brunei: Generally advocated for
regional stability, diplomatic solutions in the Middle East, and adherence to international
law, stressing the need for collective action against terrorism and extremism.
2. UN and Institutional Reform
●​China (Premier Li Qiang): Called for world leaders to defend multilateralism and reject
"Cold War" thinking, warning that the current international rules are under "serious
challenge." Li emphasized that the UN system is "constantly disrupted" and must uphold
justice and treat all countries, "big or small, as equals." ●​Egypt (Representative): Strongly argued that the current global architecture is flawed,
with major decisions often seeming to benefit a few powerful nations "to the detriment of
the Global South." Egypt called for urgent, comprehensive reform of the global
financial system and the UN Security Council.
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●​Philippines, Cambodia, and Thailand: Reinforced the concept of sovereign equality and
peaceful co-existence. The Philippines, in particular, emphasized the need for a
functioning international law system to protect the rights of nations, particularly regarding
maritime claims and territorial integrity. ●​Singapore (Minister Dr. Vivian Balakrishnan): Underscored the imperative for reform
of the multilateral system to make the UN more effective, responsive, and prepared to
harness emerging technologies like Artificial Intelligence (AI) for good. Singapore
emphasized that for small states, the UN Charter and rule of law are essential for survival.
3. UNSDGs, Climate Action, Trade, and Economy
●​Global South Focus: There was a powerful collective message from Egypt, Belarus, and
other nations that the world must scale up long-term concessional financing to meet
the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
○​Leaders highlighted that the "big elephant in the room suffocating progress" on
the SDGs is an estimated financing gap that must be addressed by reforming
credit rating frameworks and rethinking debt sustainability assessments.
○​The message was a clear demand for "more decentralization and deployment of
institutional and financial capacity to the Global South."
●​Climate Action: Leaders from the Lake Chad Basin (mentioned in the UN summary) and
Southeast Asia stressed the dramatic impact of climate change on security and
development, noting a lack of outside assistance in both combatting extremism and facing
climate-induced crises. ●​Technology and Governance: Cuba and Singapore highlighted the dual nature of
emerging technologies like AI. They called for human-centric governance rules to
harness AI's transformative potential for development while mitigating risks, especially
against military misuse and the control of content by a few transnational corporations.
4. Response to Trump
●​The collective and frequent condemnations of unilateralism, isolationist policies, and
"hegemonism" from Russia, China, and Cuba were direct rebukes to the "America First"
posture adopted by US President Trump (who spoke on Day 1).
●​The calls for universally beneficial and inclusive economic globalization and the
rejection of politicized development cooperation countered Trump's advocacy for punitive
tariffs and rejection of the globalist concept.
The overall message from Day 5 was that the world stands at a crossroads, with nations from
the Global South demanding a fairer global system, backed by rising powers like China, while
traditional Western powers insist on upholding the existing rules-based order, which they see as
essential for peace and prosperity. Watch world leaders address the UN General Assembly on Day 5 United Nations General
Assembly World Leaders Speeches #UNGA80 DAY 5. This video provides the full speeches
from leaders like Russia, India, Germany, and others who spoke on the final day of the General
Debate.

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