What Did Joe Biden Do Today?
September 24, 2024 Recap
In his remarks before the 79th Session of the United Nations General Assembly, President Biden began by reflecting on his long career in public service, noting the sweeping historical changes he has witnessed since he first took office as a U.S. senator in 1972. He described the challenges of that era, such as the Cold War, the Vietnam War, and domestic divisions, while emphasizing that the United States and the world overcame those difficulties through diplomacy and resilience. He used examples from his career to illustrate the potential for progress, including the end of apartheid in South Africa and the U.S. partnership with Vietnam, which emerged from the ashes of conflict to become a testament to reconciliation.
Biden then turned to the present day, acknowledging the major global challenges that persist, such as the war in Ukraine, conflicts in Gaza and Sudan, terrorism, hunger, climate change, and threats to democracy. However, he expressed optimism based on his experiences, believing cooperation and diplomacy could overcome these obstacles. He stressed that the center has held, citing global efforts to combat the COVID-19 pandemic, the defense of Ukraine, and unprecedented investments in climate and clean energy.
On Ukraine, Biden emphasized that Russia's invasion represents an attack on the principles of the U.N. Charter. He commended the Ukrainian people and the international community for standing firm in their defense of Ukraine's sovereignty. He warned against abandoning Ukraine and reaffirmed the U.S. commitment to supporting the country until a just and durable peace is achieved.
Addressing U.S.-China relations, Biden called for responsible competition, urging collaboration on critical issues like stopping the flow of synthetic narcotics while continuing to oppose unfair economic practices and military coercion. He emphasized that the U.S. would strengthen its alliances in the Indo-Pacific to promote peace and stability but insisted these partnerships were not meant to target any specific nation.
In the Middle East, Biden condemned Hamas’ October 7th attack on Israel and acknowledged the suffering of both Israelis and Palestinians. He called for a ceasefire and a negotiated resolution that would ensure the release of hostages, Israel’s security, and relief for Gaza's civilians. Biden reiterated the need for a two-state solution where both Israelis and Palestinians could live in peace, security, and dignity.
Biden also drew attention to the humanitarian crisis in Sudan, urging the international community to stop fueling the conflict and help bring an end to the violence that has left millions on the brink of famine. He highlighted the United States' contributions to humanitarian aid and called for more concerted global efforts to address these pressing issues.
In his speech, Biden underscored the importance of addressing broader challenges like climate change, food security, and health. He highlighted his administration’s investments in these areas, including the largest U.S. climate investment in history and contributions to global health initiatives. He stressed the importance of partnerships to help developing nations build sustainable infrastructure and navigate digital transformation.
The President also discussed the profound risks and opportunities presented by artificial intelligence (AI). He called for international collaboration to develop global rules for AI governance, emphasizing that AI must be harnessed for the benefit of all people while avoiding its potential to deepen inequalities or empower dictatorships.
As he neared the conclusion of his address, Biden reflected on his decision not to seek a second term as president, emphasizing the need for new leadership and reaffirming his belief that public service is about serving the people, not staying in power. He expressed optimism for the future, rooted in the strength of democracy and the power of collective action, drawing on examples from around the world of people standing up for freedom, justice, and dignity. He called for global unity, quoting Nelson Mandela: “It always seems impossible until it’s done,” urging world leaders to work together for peace and progress.
President Biden issued a statement highlighting the impact of the CHIPS and Science Act, emphasizing how it strengthens America's semiconductor leadership and enhances national security. The Act has spurred over $400 billion in private sector investments, creating over 115,000 jobs in construction and manufacturing. Biden celebrates the first finalized CHIPS Incentives award to Polar Semiconductor, marking a major step in the Act’s implementation. This project will create union jobs in Bloomington, Minnesota, and is part of a broader initiative to restore U.S. manufacturing and boost America's future technology leadership.
The Biden-Harris Administration has made significant strides in restoring U.S. leadership at the United Nations (UN), focusing on addressing global challenges through multilateral cooperation. Since taking office, President Biden has emphasized the importance of American involvement in tackling issues that affect the global community, such as geopolitical conflicts, climate change, and human rights violations. The administration has actively responded to international peace and security threats, particularly in the wake of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, where the U.S. rallied support for Ukraine and condemned Russia’s actions. Additionally, the U.S. defended Israel’s right to self-defense after the Hamas attacks, addressed conflicts in Sudan, and advocated for the non-deployment of nuclear weapons in space.
Human rights have been a core focus of the administration’s efforts at the UN. The U.S. rejoined the UN Human Rights Council, addressing violations in countries like China, Russia, and North Korea and promoting LGBTQI+ rights globally. It also played a key role in combating antisemitism and advancing mechanisms to investigate human rights abuses in countries like Ethiopia and Nicaragua. The administration has pushed for gender equality and women's rights, restoring funding to global health programs, advocating for sexual and reproductive rights, and responding to Iran’s crackdown on protests by removing the country from the UN Commission on the Status of Women.
The administration also focused on shaping the digital future and promoting labor rights. The U.S. sponsored landmark resolutions on the responsible use of artificial intelligence and worked with the International Labor Organization to empower workers globally. Health, development, and climate action have been high priorities, with the U.S. leading efforts to combat the COVID-19 pandemic through the World Health Organization and advancing global climate goals by rejoining the Paris Agreement. The administration emphasized food security and sustainable development, using its leadership at the UN to address these critical issues.
Finally, the Biden-Harris Administration worked to strengthen the U.S. presence at the UN by rejoining UNESCO and successfully advocating for American leadership in various UN agencies. These efforts included promoting diversity, accessibility, and reforms within the UN to meet the challenges of the 21st century. Overall, the administration's actions have reinforced the importance of American engagement in global institutions to advance peace, human rights, and sustainable development.
Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre held a press gaggle on board Air Force One en route to Queens, NY, and discussed President Biden's upcoming address at the 79th meeting of the U.N. General Assembly (UNGA) in New York. She emphasized Biden's commitment to restoring American leadership on the global stage. She outlined key topics he would address, including climate change, the opioid epidemic, AI, developing country support, and ongoing conflicts in Gaza, Ukraine, and Sudan.
Jean-Pierre highlighted the president's commitment to diplomacy, particularly regarding the Middle East conflicts, stating that the U.S. is working toward a diplomatic resolution. She reiterated that Biden's support for Israel's security remains unwavering and that the administration is focused on aiding Ukraine against Russian aggression, particularly through strengthening air defenses.
When asked about potential side meetings and discussions, she noted that such engagements often happen spontaneously and would be reported as they occur. Jean-Pierre also addressed concerns regarding China, stating she wouldn't comment on remarks made by political candidates. Finally, she noted the president's continued efforts to bolster U.S. leadership globally, including reinvigorating NATO and building coalitions to support Ukraine.
The U.S. has committed to addressing the mpox outbreak in Central and Eastern Africa, pledging at least $500 million and one million vaccine doses, with President Biden calling for a global $1 billion effort. The U.S. response includes financial support, vaccine donations, and deploying experts to help with outbreak management.
The initiative is supported by longstanding investments in global health security, including through PEPFAR and partnerships with the Africa CDC and WHO. The U.S. will strengthen healthcare systems, fund vaccine development, provide medical supplies, and support laboratory testing in affected areas. Multilateral institutions such as Gavi, CEPI, and UNICEF are key partners in enhancing vaccination distribution, treatment, and research.
The U.S. also supports expanded health emergency financing through the Pandemic Fund and DFC, ensuring long-term preparedness for future outbreaks.
President Biden met with UN Secretary-General António Guterres at the United Nations Headquarters in New York. During the meeting, President Biden emphasized the strong partnership between the United States and the United Nations, focusing on their shared efforts to promote peace, safeguard human rights, and support sustainable development worldwide. He reaffirmed his life-long dedication to fostering alliances and multilateral cooperation, noting that addressing global crises requires collective action and adherence to international principles. Biden reiterated the importance of upholding the values enshrined in the UN Charter, which serve as the foundation for global cooperation and diplomacy.
The President also underscored the need for a more robust and effective United Nations, capable of tackling the complex challenges of the 21st century, including climate change, conflicts, and humanitarian crises. He spoke about the U.S. commitment to investing billions of dollars toward achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which aim to address global inequality, poverty, and environmental sustainability. Biden’s remarks highlighted the U.S. leadership in driving global progress through multilateral institutions like the UN and advancing long-term goals for peace, development, and human rights.
President Biden met with Bangladesh's Chief Adviser, Muhammad Yunus, to congratulate him on his recent appointment as head of the interim government. During the meeting, both leaders underscored the deep and longstanding partnership between the United States and Bangladesh, built on shared democratic values, mutual respect, and strong people-to-people connections. President Biden acknowledged the importance of this relationship, emphasizing the U.S.'s commitment to fostering further engagement between the two nations.
In addition to congratulating Yunus, President Biden expressed his full support for Bangladesh as it embarks on implementing its new reform agenda. He offered continued U.S. assistance to help ensure the successful execution of these reforms, which aim to promote stability and progress in the country. The meeting highlighted the cooperative spirit between the two governments and the intention to strengthen their partnership in the future.
President Joe Biden met with President Surangel Whipps of Palau, President Wesley Simina of Micronesia, and President Hilda Heine of the Marshall Islands at the United Nations in New York. The meeting celebrated the renewal of the Compacts of Free Association and related agreements, strengthening the unique and close relationships between the United States and these Pacific island nations for another 20 years. These compacts are vital frameworks that ensure economic aid, defense provisions, and other forms of U.S. support to the Freely Associated States (FAS), which is essential in maintaining regional stability and development.
During the meeting, President Biden emphasized his administration's commitment to providing health care support to veterans from the Freely Associated States who serve in the U.S. Armed Forces. Notably, citizens from these islands serve at higher per capita rates than most U.S. states, highlighting their significant contributions to U.S. military efforts. Biden acknowledged the need to honor these contributions through enhanced support, particularly in healthcare services for veterans.
In addition, the leaders discussed the importance of continued cooperation on critical issues affecting all four nations, particularly the existential threat posed by climate change and rising sea levels. Given the vulnerability of the Pacific Islands to these environmental challenges, the leaders reaffirmed their shared commitment to addressing these issues through collaboration and mutual support. President Biden also expressed gratitude for the ongoing support from the Freely Associated States for the U.S.'s increasing engagement in the Pacific region, a strategic priority for the United States.
President Biden addressed the Global Coalition to Address Synthetic Drug Threats, emphasizing the devastating impact of synthetic drugs like fentanyl. He shared a personal story of a young woman, Courtney, who died of a fentanyl overdose and highlighted the toll that synthetic drugs have taken on families worldwide.
Biden outlined steps his administration has taken to combat the opioid epidemic, including making Naloxone available over the counter, investing $80 billion in addiction treatment, sanctioning drug cartels, and increasing drug seizures at the U.S. border. He described the opioid crisis as a national security threat, citing international cooperation efforts with Canada, Mexico, and China to disrupt supply chains.
Biden also noted progress in reducing overdose deaths by 10% — the largest drop on record — but emphasized the need for continued efforts. He called on nations to pledge support for the global coalition's goals: disrupting supply chains, detecting drug threats, and expanding access to treatment.
In closing, Biden urged global leaders to work together to protect their citizens from the harms of synthetic drugs, saying, "We can, we will, and we must."
In his remarks at the Bloomberg Global Business Forum, President Biden emphasized the importance of addressing climate change as a global and economic priority. He praised Michael Bloomberg for his contributions and highlighted his administration's leadership in driving clean energy initiatives, both domestically and internationally.
Biden reflected on inheriting crises such as the COVID-19 pandemic and an economic downturn, drawing parallels to previous historical challenges that presidents like Franklin D. Roosevelt faced. He outlined the administration’s achievements in tackling climate change through initiatives like the Inflation Reduction Act, which allocates $369 billion for clean energy and climate projects. He stressed the need to create well-paying union jobs, rejoin the Paris Agreement, and work with international partners like India and Kenya to drive progress in global clean energy.
Biden underscored the progress made in clean energy manufacturing, including advancements in solar power, battery production, and electric vehicle deployment. He also discussed efforts to modernize America’s energy grid, promote climate-smart agriculture, and invest in rural communities.
In closing, Biden reiterated America's role as a global leader in climate change and called on businesses to invest in clean energy, emphasizing optimism about the country's future and ability to meet these challenges.
President Biden has approved disaster declarations for the Confederated Tribes and Bands of the Yakama Nation, as well as the states of New York, Kansas, and Nebraska, due to various natural disasters.
Yakama Nation: Federal aid was approved to support recovery efforts after wildfires from June 22 to July 8, 2024. This includes grants for temporary housing, home repairs, loans for uninsured losses, and hazard mitigation. FEMA's Tonia Pence was appointed to coordinate recovery efforts.
New York: A disaster declaration was issued due to damage caused by Tropical Storm Debby from August 8-10, 2024. Federal funds are available to support local governments, tribes, and nonprofits for emergency work and hazard mitigation. FEMA’s Lai Sun Yee was appointed as the coordinator.
Kansas: Severe storms, tornadoes, and flooding from June 26 to July 7, 2024, prompted federal assistance. The funding is for emergency repairs and hazard mitigation. FEMA’s Andrew P. Meyer will coordinate the efforts.
Nebraska: A declaration was issued after severe weather from June 20 to July 8, 2024, causing damage in multiple counties. Federal funds will help with emergency repairs and hazard mitigation, also coordinated by Andrew P. Meyer of FEMA.
Each declaration involves federal funding on a cost-sharing basis to support repairs and hazard mitigation for affected areas.
President Biden meets with UN Secretary-General António Guterres in New York
I am so grateful to you for publishing this. With all attention focused on the upcoming election, it is wonderful to hear of all that Joe Biden continues to do for the good of America, and for the world at large. Thankyou.