Biden Declares Intention to Lead World Order: "US Must Sit at the Head of the Negotiation Table"

Diplomatic and Security Line Briefing... "Must Compete with Policies Reflecting US Values"
Policy Paradigm Shift Announced
No Mention of Korean Peninsula Issue Yet

[Asia Economy New York=Correspondent Baek Jong-min] President-elect Joe Biden of the United States has indicated a major shift in foreign and security policy by stating that "America must return to the head of the negotiation table." This follows his remarks the previous day regarding the conclusion of the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP), where he emphasized that the U.S. should lead the global trade order. Once again, he underscored a U.S.-led world order. After the inauguration of the Biden administration, a major overhaul is expected in U.S. foreign policy, which had been managed in a 'hit-or-miss' manner under President Donald Trump.

On the 17th (local time), according to ABC News, Biden attended a video conference with foreign and security officials and stated that the U.S. must take the head seat, emphasizing that "we must compete and succeed with a foreign policy that reflects the values and needs of the American people."

The meeting was arranged to receive advice on the next administration's foreign policy from foreign and security experts, following dialogues with the COVID-19 task force and economic leaders. Attendees included Tony Blinken, former Deputy Secretary of State and White House National Security Council (NSC) advisor; Samantha Powers, former U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations; Avril Haines; Stanley McChrystal, former commander of U.S. forces in Afghanistan; and William McRaven, former commander of Joint Special Operations Command.

Although foreign and security affairs were not selected as the top priority by Biden's transition team, there is a prevailing view that swift action is necessary due to the significant damage caused by the Trump administration. On the same day, the Trump administration announced plans to withdraw a substantial number of U.S. troops stationed in Afghanistan and Iraq by January 15, just before Biden's inauguration. This confirmed their intention to resist until the very end. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo is making every effort to maintain the Trump administration's foreign policy by touring Europe and the Middle East despite being in the final days of the administration.

Biden also expressed frustration over not receiving a proper handover in foreign and security matters despite the grave situation. He said, "Normally, the president-elect would receive intelligence briefings, but I have not been briefed," emphasizing the need for expert advice. The transition team stated that Biden will continue to seek counsel from foreign and security experts going forward.

However, the Wall Street Journal (WSJ) reported that informal meetings between the transition team and the current administration are taking place amid delays in the transition process. Citing a Department of Defense official, WSJ reported, "Although the transition has not officially started, non-classified briefing materials have begun to be provided within permissible limits."

Biden also expressed his intention to expand communication with world leaders and fully activate summit diplomacy after taking office. During the meeting, he mentioned that he has spoken with 13 heads of state so far, stating, "The message is that America is back, and America is no longer alone." On the same day, Biden spoke with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Israeli President Reuven Rivlin, and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to discuss current issues in the Middle East and the Indo-Pacific region.

Regarding the RCEP agreement the previous day, Biden said, "The United States, which accounts for 25% of the global economy, must unite with democratic countries that account for another 25% or more." He added, "Instead of allowing China and other countries to dictate outcomes in this region, we must be able to set the rules of the road," signaling a tough stance toward China.

There have been no specific remarks yet on the Biden administration's approach to the Korean Peninsula issue. During the last presidential debate, he referred to North Korean Supreme Leader Kim Jong-un as a thug and stated that he would be willing to meet if Kim agrees to nuclear disarmament.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.