Panel: How will history judge Biden's foreign policy?
Jan 17, 2025
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Join experts Wang Jin, an Associate Professor on international relations, Harvey Dzodin, a veteran media executive and global affairs analyst, and Edward Lehman, a legal commentator, as they dissect Joe Biden's foreign policy. They delve into the intricacies of U.S.-China relations, NATO rejuvenation, and the recent Israel-Hamas ceasefire. The discussion also critiques historical accountability for global conflicts, addresses the challenges of climate initiatives, and contemplates how Biden's decisions might be judged by future generations.
Biden touts NATO's revitalization and increased defense spending from member nations as a cornerstone of his foreign policy accomplishments.
Critics argue that Biden's foreign policy has intensified global challenges, including inflation and adversarial aggression, questioning its effectiveness and legacy.
Deep dives
Biden's Foreign Policy Reflection
U.S. President Joe Biden highlights a ceasefire deal between Israel and Hamas as a key accomplishment of his administration, emphasizing the collaborative efforts of his team in negotiations. He believes his legacy includes revitalizing NATO, with an increase in defense spending from member countries, and strengthening Indo-Pacific partnerships, which he views as a counter to China. Critics, including President-elect Donald Trump, argue that Biden's foreign policy has led to significant challenges, such as rising inflation and increased aggression from adversaries. The contrasting perspectives raise questions about whether Biden’s approach has restored American global leadership or exacerbated existing problems.
Evaluating NATO's Strength
Supporters of Biden's policies argue that NATO has become more unified under his leadership, with member nations increasingly aligning on issues related to Russia and China. Before his presidency, many NATO allies were failing to meet defense spending targets, but that number has significantly increased during his term. However, some differences in opinion regarding NATO's response to conflicts, particularly in Ukraine, reveal underlying tensions within the alliance. The future of NATO may depend on how effectively it navigates these divisions and maintains coherence amongst its members moving forward.
Impact of U.S.-China Relations
Biden's administration has worked towards strengthening alliances in the Asia-Pacific region as a strategy to counter China's influence, which has resulted in a more complex geopolitical landscape. While the U.S. aims to decouple from China in key sectors like technology, these strategies have also prompted China to bolster its own capabilities and innovation. The ongoing tech competition has incentivized China to enhance its semiconductor industry, fostering resilience despite U.S. restrictions. Experts note that this dynamic complicates the notion of isolating China, as future cooperation may be necessary for global stability.
Repercussions of Global Conflicts
Biden's approach to international conflicts, including the Israel-Hamas situation and the war in Ukraine, reflects both successes and failures that will shape his foreign policy legacy. While he frames American support for Ukraine as a demonstration of leadership, critics believe it may have prolonged the conflict, making peace more elusive. The withdrawal from Afghanistan and its chaotic execution stands as a controversial aspect of his administration, prompting questions about the handling of complex international engagements. Ultimately, Biden's foreign policy will be evaluated through the outcomes of these significant global events and their long-term implications.
US President Joe Biden has defended his foreign policy record as he prepares to leave the White House.
In his final foreign policy address this week, Biden claimed he's leaving the next administration a country in a far stronger position than the one he inherited.
However, President-elect Donald Trump has criticized the foreign policy record of Joe Biden, calling it a new low in US history.
Has Joe Biden truly restored America's global leadership, or has he created more problems than he resolved? How will history judge his foreign policy legacy?
Host Zhao Ying is joined by Dr. Wang Jin, Associate Professor at Northwest University in Xi'an, China; Harvey Dzodin, Former Vice President of ABC TV network, and Senior Fellow of the Center for China and Globalization; Edward Lehman, Managing Director LEHMAN, LEE & Xu Law Firm
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