In a momentous address delivered before the 78th United Nations General Assembly on Sunday, President Joe Biden of the United States issued a resolute condemnation of the unlawful government takeovers that have shaken West and Central Africa.
He reaffirmed his nation’s unwavering dedication to promoting democratic principles worldwide.
President Biden expressed full support for the proactive actions taken by the African Union and the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) in pressuring the military junta in Niger Republic. Their objective is to reinstate constitutional order and reinstall President Mohamed Bazoum, who was forcibly ousted on July 26, 2023.
The coup in Niger has sparked widespread international outrage, with prominent entities including the United Nations, United Kingdom, African Union, ECOWAS, France, and other key stakeholders voicing their disapproval.
In response, ECOWAS has authorized a standby army to prepare for a potential military intervention aimed at restoring democracy, following unsuccessful diplomatic negotiations with the junta.
During his address, President Biden lent his unwavering support to the African Union, ECOWAS, and other regional organizations working tirelessly to safeguard democracy.
He underscored the pivotal role democracy plays in addressing pressing global challenges, stating, “We stand with the African Union and ECOWAS and other regional bodies to support constitutional rule. We will not retreat from the values that make us strong. We will defend democracy, our best tool to meet the challenges that we face around the world and we are working to show how democracy is delivering in ways that matter to people’s lives.”
In addition to these critical issues, President Biden also addressed climate change, emphasizing the urgent need for global action. He highlighted the importance of harnessing Artificial Intelligence to benefit and protect citizens and condemned the ongoing Russian war in Ukraine, calling for global solidarity with the Ukrainian people.
President Biden further advocated for the expansion of the United Nations Security Council, advocating for the inclusion of new permanent and non-permanent members. He urged global institutions to be more responsive to the needs of their members, especially developing nations grappling with economic challenges and poverty.
In a proactive step towards international development, President Biden disclosed that he had requested additional funds from the U.S. Congress to increase World Bank financing by $25 billion. He also outlined efforts to mobilize additional funding for the World Bank through the G20, with the aim of providing a transformative boost to World Bank lending.
These measures underscore the United States’ commitment to addressing interconnected global issues, including climate change and sustainable development.