Speakers at the **U.N. General Assembly** this week drew on a wide range of quotes from ancient texts, modern figures, and cultural proverbs to emphasize themes of justice, unity, and shared responsibility. Iraqi Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi referenced the ancient Babylonian king Hammurabi, quoting, "Laws are made to prevent the strong from oppressing the weak." This statement highlighted the importance of legal systems in protecting vulnerable populations. Marshall Islands President Hilda Heine used a Marshallese proverb about a coral reef where different species of fish gather to feed and find shelter, symbolizing the value of diversity and cooperation in building a stable society. Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis quoted David Byrne of the band Talking Heads, saying, "We're on a road to nowhere," a line that reflects on the uncertainty of the future and the need for direction. Yemen's vice president, Abdullah Abdulkader al Alimi-Bawzer, cited a Yemeni poet, stating, "We are the land, its custodians and its inhabitants. To us it belongs, for we are its people and its home," as translated by U.N. interpreters. This quote underscores a deep connection between people and their homeland. Finnish President Alexander Stubb quoted Mahatma Gandhi, saying, "The breach of one rule inevitably leads to the breach of other rules," emphasizing the interconnectedness of ethical principles. Barbadian Prime Minister Mia Mottley quoted Barbados’ poet laureate Esther Phillips, saying, "Members of the United Nations General Assembly, your very name implies commitment, through your peace initiatives and humanitarian policies, to igniting the fires of conscience, empathy, unity and equity." This highlighted the moral responsibility of the U.N. members. President Azali Assoumani of The Comoros quoted author Chinua Achebe, saying, "When we gather together in the moonlit village ground, it is not because of the moon. Every man can see it in his own compound. We come together because it is good for kinsmen to do so," emphasizing the importance of community and shared values. President Godwin Friday of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines quoted calypso singer David Rudder, saying, "When there is anguish in Port-au-Prince, it’s still Africa crying," drawing attention to the shared struggles of nations in the Caribbean and Africa. Palau President Surangel Whipps quoted a Palauan saying, "Knowledge is like the ocean’s waves: It comes in many forms and sizes, yet no wave overpowers another, and all ultimately reach the same shore," suggesting that diverse perspectives can lead to common understanding. Dutch Prime Minister Rob Jetten referenced Anne Frank, saying, "How wonderful it is that no one has to wait, but we can start right now to gradually change the world!" He also quoted Mahatma Gandhi, Nuremberg war crimes trial prosecutor Robert H. Jackson, and an inscription at a cemetery for American World War II soldiers in the Netherlands, emphasizing the importance of historical reflection and collective action.