BIDEN DELIVERS FINAL UNGA ADDRESS, CALLS FOR UN TRANSFORMATION, AI LAW AND GLOBAL PEACE

From Nabilah Saleh

NEW YORK, Sept 24 (Bernama) -- United States President Joe Biden delivered his final speech at the 79th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) on Tuesday, urging the world body to undergo critical reforms and adapt to the evolving challenges.

Reflecting on his years in public service, Biden emphasised the need for a more inclusive and responsive UN to meet modern global demands.

Particularly, he said the Security Council must be reformed to reflect the realities of the 21st century.

"The UN needs to adapt and bring new voices and perspectives. The Security Council, like the UN itself, needs to go back to the job of making peace, brokering deals to end wars and suffering.

"We must ensure that the Council is equipped to handle today’s challenges, not just those of the past. It’s time to move forward." 

Present during the address were UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres and the president of the 79th UNGA session, Philemon Yang.

Biden also turned his attention to artificial intelligence (AI), which would drastically transform societies and economies in the coming decades. 

He stressed the importance of regulating AI to prevent its misuse while maximising its potential benefits. 

"AI will change our ways of life, work and war," Biden said, adding that global collaboration is essential to ensuring AI's safety, security and trustworthiness.

On this front, he mentioned that the US and 60 other countries had joined a declaration for the responsible use of AI. 

"We need an equally urgent effort to ensure AI is used in ways that benefit humanity, not to deepen digital divides or empower authoritarian regimes." 

Biden also addressed the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, reaffirming the US’ commitment to supporting Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. 

"When Russia invaded Ukraine, we could have stood by and merely protested, but we chose to act. Ukraine is still free today," he said, calling the war a direct assault on the principles of the UN Charter.

Biden also commended the Ukrainian people's resilience and underscored the need for continued global support to secure a "durable peace".

He further warned against growing weary, stating: "We cannot look away. We will not let up on our support for Ukraine, not until Ukraine wins with a just peace."

In addition to Ukraine, Biden addressed the pressing humanitarian crisis in Gaza, where the ongoing conflict has devastated civilian lives. 

He called for an immediate ceasefire and endorsed a deal put forward by the US, Qatar and Egypt, aimed at securing a truce and bringing hostages home. 

"Innocent civilians in Gaza are going through hell. They didn't ask for this war," Biden said, stressing the urgency of resolving the situation, as well as highlighting the need for peace and security for both Israel and Gaza.

Biden's address also touched on broader issues, including the Middle East's stability, stressing that preventing further escalation in the region remains a priority. 

He urged global leaders to prevent a wider war and to work towards a two-state solution where "Israel enjoys security and Palestinians live with dignity and self-determination".

As Biden closed his speech, he reminded world leaders of their collective responsibility to serve their people. 

"It’s your people that matter the most. Never forget why we are here – for the people, not the other way around.”

Reminding the assembly that cooperation is key to solving the world’s most pressing challenges, he said: "Let's work together to unleash the full potential of our people. There's nothing beyond our capacity if we work together."

-- BERNAMA