President Biden is considering extensive international travel during his final four months in office, potentially making stops in Europe, Africa, and South America. While Biden is expected to attend international summits in South America after the Nov. 5 election, he may also travel to Germany and sub-Saharan Africa in October. This potential lame-duck tour would divert some press attention from the election campaign, where Republican nominee Donald Trump is running against Vice President Kamala Harris, whom Biden has cohosted events with. Biden is committed to visiting Africa while in office, and a trip to Germany would highlight his legacy as a leader of the NATO alliance during Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
Biden’s potential South America tour would include attending the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation conference in Lima, Peru, followed by the G-20 summit in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. This provides an opportunity for Biden to meet with Chinese President Xi Jinping at one or both of these summits. The relationship between Biden and Xi has been controversial, with concerns about Biden family business relationships with Chinese state-linked firms, lack of cooperation on COVID-19 investigations, and failure to stop exports of fentanyl. The White House has not confirmed or denied plans for a grand tour before Biden retires to Delaware on Jan. 20.
According to National Security Council spokesman Sean Savett, President Biden’s foreign policy agenda is focused on strengthening alliances and partnerships around the world. This includes efforts to secure a ceasefire and hostage release deal to end the war in Gaza, support Ukraine in defense against Russian aggression, address challenges posed by China, and strengthen relationships to advance opportunities for the American people, enhance American strength and security, and address global threats. Biden’s goal is to continue meeting with foreign leaders to make the world safer and more secure.
The potential visits to Germany, Africa, and South America would be part of Biden’s efforts to engage with global leaders and address key international issues. With the upcoming summits in South America and Asia, Biden could have the opportunity to discuss a range of topics with world leaders, including economic cooperation, security challenges, and global health concerns. By actively participating in these international events, Biden aims to advance U.S. interests on the global stage and strengthen relationships with key allies and partners.
As Biden approaches the final months of his presidency, his international travel plans reflect his commitment to advancing U.S. foreign policy priorities and engaging with the global community. By visiting various regions around the world, Biden seeks to demonstrate U.S. leadership on critical issues such as security, human rights, and economic development. These trips also present an opportunity for Biden to reaffirm America’s commitment to its allies and partners, while addressing complex challenges facing the international community.
In conclusion, President Biden’s potential international travel plans in his final months in office highlight his dedication to strengthening U.S. relationships with other countries and addressing global challenges. With visits to Europe, Africa, and South America on the horizon, Biden aims to engage with key leaders and discuss important issues such as security, economic cooperation, and public health. His focus on diplomacy and alliance-building underscores his commitment to advancing U.S. interests and promoting stability and peace on the international stage.
