New Year Messages from US, China, and Russia Leaders: "Self Thumbs-Up"

Biden Aiming for Re-election, Emphasizes Achievements
X? Cracks Down on Pandemic Complaints... Putin Calls "War Justified"

[Asia Economy Reporter Kwon Haeyoung] In the New Year's addresses delivered by world leaders to mark the beginning of 2023, the challenges faced this year and the determination to resolve them stood out. Although each political situation differs, some leaders' speeches also revealed intentions to strengthen their power base or seek re-election.

U.S. President Joe Biden stated on Twitter on January 1 (local time), "I intend to implement many of the things passed by Congress last year," adding, "It will be a very great year."

Following his positive remarks, he shared policy achievements to date. Notable were measures aimed at easing the financial burden on citizens amid rising prices. He said, "Through Medicare, insulin prices will not exceed $35 per month," and added, "Pharmaceutical companies will face penalties if they raise drug prices more than the inflation rate." He also highlighted the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), which our country requested to revise provisions related to the automobile industry, saying, "You can receive tax benefits when purchasing new or used electric vehicles."

[Image source=Yonhap News]

President Biden emphasized job creation, stating, "We will build new bridges nationwide, clean lead pipes, and expand online connectivity." He explained, "Many well-paying jobs will be created in manufacturing and construction."

These remarks came amid expectations that President Biden will officially announce his re-election bid early this year. Foreign media speculate that Biden has decided to run again as the Democratic candidate in next year's presidential election, and he delivered his New Year's message by highlighting major achievements.

Chinese President Xi Jinping emphasized unity to overcome the resurgence of COVID-19 following last year's lifting of lockdowns. President Xi said, "If 1.4 billion Chinese people work with one heart and strong will, there will be no impossible tasks or insurmountable difficulties." He continued, "We have overcome unprecedented hardships and challenges through tremendous efforts," and stressed, "Since patience and solidarity mean victory, let us work even harder to overcome COVID-19."

This statement was made to soothe public dissatisfaction and strengthen internal cohesion as COVID-19 cases surged sharply from early this month. After successfully securing a third term, President Xi abandoned the 'Zero COVID' policy and shifted to a reopening policy to resume economic activities. Regarding economic recovery, China Daily reported, "President Xi emphasized the strong resilience and tremendous potential of the Chinese economy."

Russian President Vladimir Putin emphasized the legitimacy of the Ukraine war, which has caused innocent casualties. Contrary to his previous statements expressing a desire for peace, concerns about the prolonged war are unlikely to subside. President Putin claimed, "Defending the homeland is a sacred duty to our ancestors and descendants, and we have moral and historical legitimacy," adding, "The West is using Ukraine and its people to weaken and divide Russia." Despite estimates that 240,000 soldiers and civilians from both countries have died since Russia invaded Ukraine in February last year, he reiterated the justification for the invasion.

After President Putin's New Year's address was broadcast, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky delivered a speech in front of the Ukrainian flag fluttering in the dark. He emphasized, "We have heard that there is no choice but to surrender, but we say there is no choice but victory," adding, "We are fighting for victory and will continue to fight."

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