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By Aidan Pittman
President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy listens as President Joe Biden speaks during an event on the Ukraine Compact on the sidelines of the NATO Summit, July 11, 2024,in Washington, D.C.
After President Joe Biden announced he would step back from the 2024 presidential race he received a groundswell of good wishes from people across the Democratic Party. Yet the support didn’t stop at the border. Many world leaders praised Biden and emphasized the cooperation and support seen from him during his years in public service.
Here’s a sampling of reactions from around the globe:
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy: “Ukraine is grateful to President Biden for his unwavering support for Ukraine’s fight for freedom, which, along with strong bipartisan support in the United States, has been and continues to be critical. Many strong decisions have been made in recent years and they will be remembered as bold steps taken by President Biden in response to challenging times. And we respect today’s tough but strong decision.”
United Kingdom Prime Minister Keir Starmer: “I respect President Biden’s decision and I look forward to us working together during the remainder of his presidency. I know that, as he has done throughout his remarkable career, he will have made his decision based on what he believes is best for the American people.”
Former United Kingdom Prime Minister and Conservative Party Leader Rishi Sunak: “Working with [Biden], I saw firsthand his love for America and dedication to service. Our partnership has led to significant achievements, including AUKUS, steadfast support for Israel and joint efforts in defending our people from Houthi threats. I wish him all the best.”
French President Emmanuel Macron: “I do have respect for Biden, for what he did. I imagine how… difficult it was for him and his family,” Macron told Axios.
Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau: “I’ve known President Biden for years. He’s a great man, and everything he does is guided by his love for his country. As President, he is a partner to Canadians — and a true friend. To President Biden and the First Lady: thank you.”
Brazilian President Lula Da Silva: Lula told reporters that he has “utmost respect” for Biden and his choice to halt his re-election bid was a “personal decision.” He also stressed the importance of Brazil’s relationship with the United States. “Whether it’s a Democratic candidate or Trump, our relationship will be a civilized relationship between two important countries that have a centuries-old diplomatic relationship that we want to maintain,” he said. “We have important strategic partnerships with the United States.”
German Chancellor Olaf Scholz: “Joe Biden has achieved a great deal: for his country, for Europe, for the world. Thanks to him, transatlantic cooperation is close, NATO is strong and the USA is a good and reliable partner for us. His decision to not run again deserves recognition.”
Irish Prime Minister Simon Harris: “On behalf of the people and government of Ireland, I… would like to thank you Mr President for your global leadership and your friendship as you make your announcement that you will not stand in the 2024 US Presidential election… President Biden has been a voice for reason, effective multilateralism and shared solutions…I know your visit in 2023 will not be your last. I wish you, Mrs. Biden and your family every success and I look forward to working with you for the remainder of your presidency.”
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese: “Thank you for your leadership and ongoing service President Biden. The Australian-US Alliance has never been stronger with our shared commitment to democratic values, international security, economic prosperity and climate action for this and future generations.”
Israeli
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu: In a statement ahead of his arrival to the U.S. Monday, Netanyahu said “this will be an opportunity to thank [President Biden] for the things he did for Israel in the war and during his long and distinguished career in public service, as Senator, as Vice President, and as President.”
Netanyahu will address Congress on Wednesday to call for further support for Israel as it continues attacks in Gaza amid Congressional criticism over resulting Palestinian deaths.
Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida: “I recognize that President Biden made the decision from the standpoint of what was best politically. Needless to say, the Japan-U.S. alliance is the pillar of Japan’s diplomacy and security, so we’ll closely watch the future developments.” (Courtesy: https://www.usnews.com/)
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