Joe Biden’s message to Africa ahead of 34th AU summit

President of the United States, Joe Biden, on February 5, sent his first message to the African Union ahead of the 34th summit of leaders later this month.

Biden touched on a number of issues ranging from the US’ commitment to reengage with its international partners in a multilateral manner.

He spoke about cooperation in the areas of diplomacy, security and climate stressing that under his administration, America will be a partner, “in solidarity, support and mutual respect.

"We believe in the nations of Africa and the continent-wide spirit of entrepreneurship and innovation,” he added.

Transcript: Biden’s message to the African Union

Hello everyone,

I am honoured to send the best wishes of the people of the United States in advance of the 34th African Union summit. This past year has showed us how interconnected the world is and how our fates are bound together.

That is why my administration is committed to rebuilding our partnerships around the world and reengaging with international institutions like the African Union.

We must all work together to advance our shared vision of a better future. A future that advances growth and investment, that advances prosperity for all our nations.

A future that advances lives of peace and security for all our citizens. A future committed to investing in our democratic institutions and promoting the human rights of all people, women and girls, LGBTQ individuals and peoplewith disabilities and people of every ethnic background, religion and heritage.

To reach this future, we also must confront the serious challenges that we face. That includes investing more in globval health, defeating COVID-19 and working to prevent, detect and respond to future health crises, and partnering with the Africa CDC and other institutions to advance health security.

Raising our climate ambitions and ensuring that developing nations can mitigate and adapt to climate impacts that are already causing pain.

And engaging in sustained diplomacy in connection with the African Union to address conflicts that are costing lives all across the African continent.

None of this going to be easy, but the United States stands now to be your partner, in solidarity, support and mutual respect. We believe in the nations of Africa and the continent-wide spirit of entrepreneurship and innovation.

And through the challenges ahead, although they are great, there is no doubt that our nations, our people – the African Union, we are up to this task. I hope I can be with you next time in person, I want to thank you though. Thank you and may God bless you all.

The Biden-Harris Administration is committed to working with the African Union to advance our shared vision of a better future.

Watch President Biden’s Message to African Union Summit Participants: pic.twitter.com/tXFX4Tp9PD

— The White House (@WhiteHouse) February 5, 2021