Some things are more important than …’: What US prez Biden said in final address to UNGA – TOI
Biden Defends Afghanistan Withdrawal, Halts Re-Election Campaign in Final UN Speech
President Joe Biden delivered his final address to the United Nations General Assembly on Tuesday, September 24, 2024, marking the end of a significant chapter in his political career. The speech took place in New York City, where Biden spoke to world leaders from 134 countries. His address focused on two pivotal decisions: the withdrawal of U.S. forces from Afghanistan and his decision to suspend his 2024 re-election campaign. Both topics have sparked intense debate across the political spectrum.
In his remarks, Biden defended his decision to end America’s longest war. He explained that bringing the U.S. military presence in Afghanistan to a close was a necessary move, one that four previous presidents had grappled with. He emphasized his belief that it was the right time to do so, even though it came with significant challenges and losses. Biden noted that the withdrawal was “accompanied by tragedy,” referring to the loss of 13 U.S. service members and hundreds of Afghan civilians during a suicide bombing at Kabul Airport in 2021.
“I was determined to end it,” Biden said. “It was a hard decision, but it was the right one. We cannot keep fighting a war that began on 9/11.” He added that although the decision was controversial, it was necessary to move forward and address the new challenges facing the world.
Biden’s speech came amid global tension, with conflicts in the Middle East, the ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine, and rising concerns over China’s aggressive moves. He underscored that the world is at an “inflection point,” where the decisions made today will shape the future for decades. Biden expressed optimism about overcoming these challenges but warned that continued unity and diplomacy are critical.
“The world cannot grow weary,” he said, referring to the war in Ukraine. “We must continue to support Ukraine in its fight for democracy. Putin’s war has failed, but we cannot look away or ease up on our support.”
On the subject of China, Biden spoke about the need for responsible management of competition between the U.S. and China. He acknowledged that while there is tension, avoiding conflict should remain a priority. Biden reiterated his administration’s efforts to promote peace and stability in the Middle East, focusing on diplomacy as the solution to the region’s issues.
As Biden closed his remarks, he addressed his decision to step down from the re-election race. “Being president has been the honor of my life,” he said. He explained that while there is still much he wants to accomplish, he believes some things are more important than staying in power. He urged other leaders to remember that their ultimate responsibility is to serve their people, not personal ambitions.
The decision to suspend his re-election campaign came as a surprise to many, but Biden framed it as a reflection of his commitment to democratic principles. “It’s your people that matter most. We are here to serve them. That is the soul of democracy.”
Biden’s final words resonated with optimism as he called for collaboration among global leaders to tackle the major issues facing the world today. He spoke of his deep belief in democracy and the power of people to drive change.
“I’ve seen the remarkable power of ‘We the people’ all over the world,” he said, drawing inspiration from his decades-long political career. He concluded with a hopeful message, saying, “We are stronger than we think. And if we work together, there’s nothing we can’t achieve.”
Biden’s final UN address was not only a reflection of his presidency but also a reminder of the challenges the world still faces. The speech marked the end of his leadership on the global stage, leaving behind a legacy defined by his commitment to diplomacy, unity, and democratic ideals.
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