A Focus on China and Competition

In his final address to the United Nations General Assembly before leaving office, US President Joe Biden reflected on his political career and highlighted his administration's achievements. However, the speech quickly shifted focus to China, with Biden reiterating the need for responsible competition while implicitly boasting about areas of cooperation.

Chinese observers noted the prominence of China in Biden's speech, urging the US to reflect on its own policies that have contributed to global conflicts. While Biden emphasized responsible competition and collaboration, his remarks also seemed to portray China as a threat to the US.

Analysts criticized Biden's use of the UN platform to push his strategic competition agenda, arguing that it undermined the General Assembly's role as a forum for global cooperation. They pointed out that the world faces pressing challenges like climate change, poverty, and ongoing conflicts, which require international collaboration rather than competition.

Global Leaders Address Pressing Issues at the UNGA

Meanwhile, world leaders gathered at the UNGA to address these challenges. Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi engaged in bilateral meetings and is scheduled to address the Assembly on Saturday. South African President Cyril Ramaphosa called for collective action to end the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, while Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva urged dialogue to resolve the Russia-Ukraine war.

China's stance on both conflicts emphasizes peace and dialogue. Wang Yi stressed that sending more weapons to Ukraine only prolongs the war, while analysts criticized the US for fueling the conflict for its own benefit.

Despite Biden's mention of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, his speech lacked concrete action and instead focused on Israel's security needs. This approach, along with the US' continued support for Ukraine, highlights the contrasting approaches of the US and other world leaders in addressing global challenges.