Joe Biden's debut African visit premised upon re-election: summary
What we know
- U.S. President Joe Biden has disclosed his intention to embark on an official visit to Africa in February. However, his visit is premised on his anticipated win in the upcoming elections in November.
- The announcement came as Biden, a Democrat seeking re-election, engages in a competitive electoral race against his Republican counterpart, former President Trump, a presumptive nominee in the upcoming race.
- Biden reaffirmed his intentions of visiting Africa during discussions with Kenyan President William Ruto upon his arrival at the White House for a series of meetings and a state dinner.
- In November last year, during a meeting with Angolan President Joao Lourenco in the Oval Office, Biden hinted at the possibility of a visit to Angola, although specific details regarding the timing of the trip were not provided.
- National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan had earlier informed reporters that Biden eagerly anticipated a visit to Africa and intended to make the journey as President of the United States.
What they said
"I plan on going in February after I am reelected" Biden is quoted to have said during discussions with Kenyan President William Ruto at the White House. The National Security Advisor, Jake Sullivan told the media that Biden intends to embark on the visit in his capacity as president of the United States of America. Meanwhile, senior administration officials have said that discussions between Biden and Ruto would include a wide range of topics, ranging from trade and debt relief to addressing challenges in Haiti, Ukraine, Sudan, and other regions, Reuters reports.
