Reactions ranged from joy to skepticism after nearly 200 nations meeting in Dubai agreed to a first-ever call for the world to transition away from fossil fuels.

The agreement was reached at the UN-led COP28 summit, which is aimed at fighting the climate change that bears costly and destructive consequences.

Here are some key reactions:

'Cause for optimism'

"Everybody here should be pleased that in a world of Ukraine and the Middle East war and all the other challenges of a planet that is floundering," US envoy John Kerry said, there is "cause for optimism, cause for gratitude and cause for some significant congratulations to everybody here."

'Post-fossil era'

"Today's agreement marks the beginning of the post-fossil era," EU chief Ursula von der Leyen said, in a social media post. 

 'Gratitude'

Saudi official Albara Tawfiq, speaking on behalf of the Arab bloc, voiced "gratitude" for the talks.

Saudi Arabia, the world's biggest oil producer, had voiced strong opposition to mentioning a "phase-out" or "phase-down" of fossil fuels in the text.

'Developed nations' responsibility'

"Developed countries have an unshakable, historical responsibility for climate change and therefore must take the lead to embark on the 1.5 degree Celsius pathway ahead of the rest of the world," Chinese vice environment minister Zhao Yingmin told COP28 in Dubai.

'Take the lead'

"It is crucial that developed countries take the lead in the transition away from fossil fuels," Brazilian Environment Minister Marina Silva said in Dubai.