In his final State of the Union address before the upcoming presidential election in November, US President Joe Biden asserted that the United States is actively confronting China's unjust economic practices and endeavoring to fortify partnerships with allies like India.
Biden emphasized the stance against China's economic misconduct, stressing efforts toward peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait while revitalizing collaborative ties with allies, particularly in the Indo-Pacific region, including India, Australia, Japan, South Korea, among others.
Moreover, Biden reiterated the US's aspiration for healthy competition with China, underscored by the avoidance of conflict.
Addressing a joint session of the House of Representatives and the Senate, Biden commenced his remarks by condemning Russian President Vladimir Putin's actions in Ukraine and criticizing his predecessor, Donald Trump, albeit without explicitly naming him, for his apparent deference to Putin.
Highlighting Trump's comments suggesting leniency towards Putin's aggressive ambitions, Biden deemed such rhetoric outrageous, dangerous, and unacceptable, reflecting a steadfast commitment to not yielding to external pressures.
Biden also directed a firm message to Israel's leadership, urging against politicizing humanitarian aid to Palestinians and announcing plans for the US military to construct a temporary pier in Gaza to facilitate the delivery of relief supplies via sea.
On the issue of abortion rights, Biden denounced the US Supreme Court's 2022 decision to overturn abortion protections, pledging to codify the former precedent into law if re-elected, an announcement greeted with applause from Democrats and members of Biden's cabinet.
In a critique veiled at Trump, Biden attributed blame for the Supreme Court's decision on overturning Roe v. Wade, asserting that those who boast about reversing abortion protections fail to comprehend the resilience and political influence of women.
Regarding the January 6 Capitol riots, Biden wasted no time condemning the insurrectionists, dismissing their actions as unpatriotic and chastising Trump and his allies for attempting to obfuscate the truth about the events of that day.
Turning to the contentious issue of immigration reform, Biden lambasted Republicans for stalling progress on bipartisan compromise legislation, particularly amid concerns over border security and aid to Ukraine and Israel.
Responding to criticisms from Trump regarding his stance on immigration, Biden reiterated his commitment to upholding American values, rejecting demonization of immigrants and discriminatory policies targeting specific religious groups.
As he concluded his address, Biden candidly acknowledged his advanced age, stating that he had been told he is too old, yet affirming his enduring dedication to the fundamental ideals of equality and justice, irrespective of age or circumstance.
