Biden’s Speech at the 79th Session of the United Nations General Assembly
President Joe Biden delivered his final speech to the United Nations General Assembly on September 24, 2024, marking a significant moment in his presidency. The speech highlighted several key themes, including the need to stand firm against aggression, end ongoing conflicts, and address global challenges like climate change, hunger, and disease.
Biden emphasized the importance of upholding the principles of the U.N. Charter, particularly in the context of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. He noted that the United States provided massive security, economic, and humanitarian assistance to Ukraine, and pledged continued support until a just and durable peace is achieved.
The President also discussed the need to responsibly manage competition with China, highlighting recent cooperation on stopping the flow of deadly synthetic narcotics. He praised the collaboration, stating it matters for the people in his country and many others around the world.
Biden highlighted the United States’ ambitious climate actions, including rejoining the Paris Agreement on day one and aiming to cut emissions in half by 2030. He also mentioned quadrupling climate financing to developing nations, with $11 billion committed thus far in 2024.
The President emphasized the importance of global health initiatives, noting that the U.S. has donated nearly 700 million doses of COVID-19 vaccine to 117 countries. He called for swift action to address the mpox outbreak in Africa, committing $500 million to help African countries prevent and respond to the outbreak and donating 1 million doses of mpox vaccine.
Biden stressed the need for a stronger, more effective, and more inclusive United Nations. He supported reforming and expanding the membership of the U.N. Security Council to bring in new voices and perspectives, ensuring the organization adapts to today’s world.
The President concluded by emphasizing the interconnectedness of security, prosperity, and freedoms, urging leaders to work together to address global challenges and ensure a shared future. He also highlighted the importance of preserving democracy and the need for new leadership to take the nation forward.
Biden’s speech was a call to action, urging leaders to make decisions that will determine the future for decades to come. He emphasized the importance of unity and cooperation in the face of global crises, including the ongoing conflict in the Middle East and the need for a ceasefire in Gaza.
