NEW YORK, 24 SEPT – The President of the United States (US), Joe Biden delivered his final speech at the 79th Session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) yesterday, calling on the world body to undergo critical reforms and adapt to the challenges of the world that are increasingly grow
Recalling his years of service in the public sector, Biden emphasized the need to make the UN more inclusive and responsive to meet modern global demands. He specifically stated that the Security Council must be reformed to reflect the reality of the 21st century.
“The UN needs to adapt and bring new voices and perspectives. The Security Council, like the UN itself, needs to return to its primary task of making peace and working towards an agreement to end war and suffering. We must ensure that the Council is equipped to deal with the challenges of today, not just the challenges of the past. It’s time to move forward,” Biden said.
Also present during the debate were the UN Secretary General, Antonio Guterres and the President of the 79th Session of the UNGA, Philemon Yang.
Biden also focused on artificial intelligence (AI) that will drastically change society and the economy in the coming decades. He emphasized the importance of regulating AI to prevent its misuse while maximizing its potential benefits.
“AI will change the way we live, work and war,” Biden said, adding that global cooperation is essential to ensure the safety and reliability of AI. Biden said the US and 60 other countries have signed a declaration for the responsible use of AI.
“We need an equally urgent effort to ensure that AI is used in a way that benefits humanity, not to deepen the digital divide or empower authoritarian regimes,” he added.
Biden also discussed the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, reaffirming the US commitment to support the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Ukraine.
“When Russia attacked Ukraine, we could have remained silent and protested, but we chose to act. Ukraine is still free today,” Biden added, calling the war a direct attack on the principles of the UN Charter.
He also praised the resilience of the Ukrainian people and stressed the need for continued global support to guarantee “lasting peace.”
He further warned not to lose heart, stating, “We cannot turn away. We will not give up our support for Ukraine, not until Ukraine wins a just peace.”
In addition to Ukraine, Biden discussed the urgent humanitarian crisis in Gaza, where the ongoing conflict has devastated civilian lives. He called for an immediate ceasefire and supported the agreement put forward by the US, Qatar and Egypt aimed at securing a ceasefire and bringing home the hostages.
“Innocent civilians in Gaza are going through hell. They did not ask for this war,” said Biden emphasizing the urgent need to resolve the situation and stressing the need for peace and security for both Gaza and Israel.
Biden’s speech also touched on broader issues, including the stability of the Middle East, stressing that avoiding an escalation of conflict in the region remains a priority. He urged global leaders to avoid a bigger war and work towards a two-state solution where “Israel enjoys security and the Palestinians live with dignity and self-determination.”
As Biden closed his speech, he reminded world leaders of their collective responsibility to serve their people. “Your people are the most important. Don’t forget why we are here – for the people, not the other way around”.
Reminding the gathering that cooperation is the key to solving the world’s most pressing challenges, he said: “Let’s work together to unleash the full potential of our people. Nothing is beyond our ability if we work together.” – Named
