78th UNGA

President Biden Addresses the UNGA, Calls for Global Cooperation

By Mohammad Hossain from UN Headquarters
Published Wed, Sep 20, 2023 7:12 AM

New York, NY - In a significant address to the United Nations General Assembly, President Joseph R. Biden Jr. called for global unity and cooperation to address the pressing challenges facing the world today. The President highlighted the importance of international partnerships, the need for updated and reformed institutions, and the urgency of addressing issues such as climate change, humanitarian crises, and arms control.

President Biden began his speech by reflecting on his recent visit to Vietnam and the symbolic exchange of artifacts between American and Vietnamese veterans, emphasizing the power of reconciliation and cooperation even after a history marked by conflict.

He reiterated the United States' commitment to leading in the current global moment and working with countries around the world to address common challenges. The President stressed that no nation can tackle these challenges alone and that the world needs to work together to create a more secure, prosperous, and equitable future.

The President recognized the importance of international institutions, including the United Nations, in promoting global progress. He announced the United States' rejoining of UNESCO and emphasized the need to update and reform these institutions to better address modern challenges and include voices from all regions.

President Biden called for expanding the United Nations Security Council to include more member states and voiced the United States' commitment to breaking the gridlock that often hinders progress and consensus on critical issues.

He expressed support for diplomatic efforts in Haiti, highlighting the need for urgent action and calling on the Security Council to authorize a U.N.-backed security support mission.

The President underscored the United States' efforts to reform and strengthen global financial institutions like the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund to boost development in low- and middle-income countries.

President Biden emphasized the importance of addressing emerging technologies, such as artificial intelligence, with a focus on safety and governance, and called for international cooperation in harnessing AI for good while protecting citizens from potential risks.

The President highlighted various regional partnerships, including the Quad partnership in the Indo-Pacific, efforts in the Western Hemisphere, and initiatives like the Partnership for Atlantic Cooperation and the Summit for Democracy. He also stressed the United States' commitment to building a more sustainable, integrated Middle East.

President Biden's remarks on China focused on responsible competition rather than decoupling, advocating for the defense of international rules and norms while acknowledging the need for cooperation on shared challenges like climate change.

The President addressed the climate crisis, highlighting the United States' commitment to combat climate change and promote clean energy. He pledged to increase climate financing for developing countries and collaborate on innovative solutions to achieve climate goals.

President Biden reiterated the importance of achieving the Sustainable Development Goals of 2030, emphasizing the need for new partnerships, increased investment, and gender equality.

He also called for addressing the issue of unsustainable debt in low- and middle-income countries and reaffirmed the United States' commitment to humanitarian assistance amid global crises.

The President touched on arms control, expressing concern over Russia's actions and advocating for diplomacy in addressing nuclear proliferation, chemical weapons, and regional conflicts.

President Biden concluded his speech by emphasizing the importance of upholding core principles such as sovereignty, territorial integrity, and human rights. He underscored the United States' commitment to supporting Ukraine in its fight for sovereignty and defending these principles worldwide.

In closing, the President urged collective action, unity, and determination in the face of global challenges, emphasizing that the world has the capacity to shape a better future through cooperation and responsible global leadership.

President Biden's address to the United Nations General Assembly emphasized the need for international collaboration and collective action to address pressing global issues. His speech serves as a call to action for nations to work together in pursuit of a more secure, equitable, and sustainable world.