In a recent address at the State Department, President Joe Biden presented a summary of his foreign policy achievements as he nears the end of his presidency. He has spent over fifty years in public service, and during this speech, he crafted a narrative defending the progress and positioning of America in the global arena compared to when he took office under the administration of former President Donald Trump. In his remarks, he emphasized that the United States is set to enter a new era of competition and influence, citing improvements in international relations and security.
Biden framed his administration’s work as transformational and aimed at enhancing American power across the globe. He declared that he is passing on a country that is better positioned to face global challenges than the one he inherited four years earlier. The President expressed confidence that his administration is leaving a strong hand for the next leadership, highlighting an increased number of allies and orchestrated global efforts that will enhance America’s standing internationally.
In his address, Biden pointed out new adversities likely to arise but argued that his administration has laid the groundwork for a more robust United States. He stated proudly, “America is winning the worldwide competition compared to four years ago.” Under his leadership, Biden explained, alliances have strengthened and adversaries have become comparatively weaker—all without resorting to military conflict. His speech was historic in that it came full circle, reminiscing on a similar address he made early in his presidency that established his foreign policy vision.
A significant portion of Biden’s remarks focused on fortifying alliances with various nations. He referenced the alliance with NATO as being pivotal, alongside cooperative pacts such as the one with Australia and the United Kingdom, as well as the Quad alliance involving Japan, Australia, India, and the U.S. However, the overarching message of triumph was nuanced by the context of Trump’s looming return to the White House. Biden’s discourse suggested that much of his foreign policy legacy, particularly in regards to Ukraine and the Middle East, might hinge on the decisions made by the incoming administration.
The President assessed various international conflicts, notably mentioning Ukraine, where he asserted that his governance had laid the groundwork for future protection of the Ukrainian populace despite uncertainties surrounding American aid. He further asserted that Iran is at its weakest in decades during his tenure, and that the U.S. now enjoys a superior strategic position relative to long-term competition with China.
Controversially, Biden defended the end of the Afghanistan war, citing the chaotic withdrawal of troops, which was marred by tragedies, including attacks that resulted in the loss of American service members. He stressed the urgency and necessity behind the decision to withdraw troops, stating plainly that he saw no justification for maintaining a military presence in Afghanistan.
Looking forward, Biden laid out foreign policy priorities for the future administration, urging the effective pursuit of a sustained peace in Ukraine, stability in the Middle East, and measures to prevent Iran from obtaining nuclear capabilities. He also reinforced the vital importance of addressing the Israel-Hamas conflict as part of broader goals.
In his concluding remarks, Biden emphasized the role of the incoming administration in leading on critical issues such as artificial intelligence and clean energy. In a pointed observation, he admonished skeptics of climate change, calling it the most significant existential threat humanity faces and underscoring the importance of the U.S. taking the lead in combating climate change and fostering sustainable energy practices.
This address serves as a momentous point in Biden’s presidency, encapsulating his achievements and setting the stage for the legacy he wishes to leave behind in terms of foreign relations and America’s place in the world.
