Biden says America is 'stronger' and opponents are 'weaker'

(CLO) President Joe Biden affirmed that the US is stronger than ever on the international stage in his final foreign policy speech, just a week before Donald Trump officially returns to the White House.

Speaking at the State Department, Mr. Biden emphasized the rebuilding of international alliances over the past four years, while criticizing rivals such as Russia, China and Iran. He called on Western countries to continue supporting Ukraine in its fight against Russia.

Mr. Joe Biden. Photo: CC/Wiki

Although he did not directly mention Mr. Trump, Mr. Biden's speech was seen as a reminder of the turmoil of the former Republican President's first term.

"America is winning the global competition compared to four years ago... America is stronger. Our alliances are stronger, and our rivals and competitors are weaker," Biden said, drawing applause from diplomats.

Mr Biden stressed that US relations with its allies were at their highest point in decades, with NATO member states now meeting their financial obligations, something Mr Trump has repeatedly criticised.

In contrast, Mr. Trump has said he would encourage Russia to do “whatever it wants” to NATO allies that do not contribute enough.

In his speech, Mr. Biden asserted that China will never surpass the United States as the world's number one superpower. "According to the latest projections, at the current rate, China will never surpass us — period," he said.

"We have managed a complex relationship with Beijing without letting it spiral out of control or lead to conflict," Biden said, highlighting the difference in his approach to China compared to Trump, who pursued a trade war and took a tough stance on Beijing.

On the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, Mr. Biden has taken a cautious stance as his administration faces criticism from within the Democratic Party for its strong support for Israel.

However, he revealed that a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip and the release of hostages were "close to being achieved".

Mr Biden also defended his decision to withdraw troops from Afghanistan in 2021, despite the chaos and criticism his administration has faced.

"Ending the war was the right decision. And I believe history will record that," he affirmed.

President Biden called on the incoming Trump administration to continue the green energy policies he has built, calling climate change deniers “completely wrong” and “from another century.”

In his speech, Mr. Biden also indirectly sent a message to Mr. Trump and the successor administration: "America cannot turn its back on the world. We must continue to maintain our position of global leadership."

The State Department address is just the start of Mr Biden’s farewell address, which he is scheduled to make from the Oval Office on Wednesday evening.

Cao Phong (according to US State Department, Reuters, CNN, CNA)

Source: https://www.congluan.vn/ong-biden-noi-nuoc-my-manh-hon-va-doi-thu-yeu-di-trong-bai-phat-bieu-chay-tay-post330304.html