Biden’s Farewell Tour A Transition in U.S. Foreign Policy

Biden’s farewell tour highlights his administration’s achievements and future plans. It marks a significant transition in leadership. Key issues include climate change, healthcare, and economic recovery. His speeches focus on unity, progress, and the nation’s future.

After defeating Donald Trump four years ago, President Biden confidently declared, “America is back.” Now, nearing the end of his presidency, Biden finds himself fading into the background as Trump makes his return, with just over two months left in office.

A Final Tour Marked by Reflection

Biden’s six-day journey across South America offered reflection and highlighted achievements that might otherwise be overlooked. Moreover, Biden stated, “I will leave my successor and my country a solid foundation.” His remarks in Brazil’s Amazon rainforest on Sunday signaled the inevitable transition. Consequently, Biden’s legacy is increasingly defined by efforts made during this pivotal trip.

The G-20 Summit and Farewell to Global Leaders

On Monday, Biden attended the Group of 20 summit in Rio de Janeiro, a significant moment as it marked his final address to the global leaders. He urged continued international progress, saying, “We’ve made strides together, but I urge you to keep moving forward, whether I’m urging or not.” Biden’s interactions at the summit offered a poignant opportunity to bid farewell to old friends from around the world, some of whom he has known for decades.

Biden’s Last Major Foreign Engagements

Before returning home, Biden’s foreign visits will conclude with a trip to Angola in early December. These final moments on the international stage highlight the broader shift in U.S. foreign policy under his administration—one that contrasts sharply with the more transactional approach Trump’s campaign advocates.

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A Shifting U.S. Foreign Policy Landscape

Analysts agree that Biden’s departure marks the end of an era in U.S. foreign policy. “The core of America’s post-1945 foreign policy is gone. Biden represented its end,” stated Ivo H. Daalder, former U.S. ambassador to NATO. Biden’s diplomatic style emphasized international cooperation, a stark contrast to Trump’s focus on tariffs and reducing America’s global role.

A Visit to the Amazon Climate Change and Unfinished Business

During his visit to the Amazon, Biden reaffirmed his commitment to combating climate change, a defining issue of his presidency. However, his trip also highlighted unfinished promises, revealing challenges in meeting climate goals. Despite the White House committing $500 million over five years to Brazil’s Amazon Fund, progress has been slow. To date, only $100 million has been disbursed, demonstrating the difficulty in fulfilling environmental pledges. As a result, Biden now faces growing scrutiny over his administration’s ability to deliver on its climate commitments.

Facing Criticism and Uncertainty

Biden visited Manaus, the Amazon city once visited by Theodore Roosevelt, amid political criticism from some Democrats. These critics urged him to step aside, citing concerns over his political future. While Biden avoided direct mentions of Trump or his policies, his stance was evident. The political reality of his “lame duck” status remained clear throughout the visit.

Strengthening Alliances in the Final Stretch

On Friday, Biden met with South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol and Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba. He underscored his administration’s efforts to strengthen ties between Seoul and Tokyo. “This is likely to be my last trilateral meeting,” he remarked during the discussions. Biden emphasized the durability of the alliance, signaling its continued importance.

A Last Meeting with China’s Xi Jinping

In what could be his final meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping, Biden reflected on their decade-long relationship. His parting words encapsulated the weight of his presidency: “Let me close with this.”

Biden’s farewell tour underscores achievements, unity, and progress, shaping America’s future leadership, according to wall street journal subscription.