During his address at the 78th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), US President Joe Biden praised the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor, emphasizing its potential to drive investment opportunities across two continents.
Biden highlighted the rail port project as a vital component of efforts to establish a more sustainable, integrated Middle East. He further acknowledged that groundbreaking initiatives, such as the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor, were announced during the G20 Summit. This ambitious project aims to connect India with Europe through the involvement of the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, and Israel. Biden referred to it as a catalyst for investment opportunities across continents, aligning with the goal of fostering a sustainable and integrated Middle East.
The India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor encompasses two separate corridors: the East corridor connecting India to West Asia/Middle East and the Northern corridor connecting West Asia/Middle East to Europe. It includes a rail line designed to create a reliable and cost-effective cross-border ship-to-rail transit network, enhancing the transshipment of goods and services between South East Asia, India, West Asia/Middle East, and Europe.
Furthermore, Biden emphasized the importance of expanding the UN Security Council and reiterated the US commitment to pushing for reforms. He underscored the need to find common ground and make progress in addressing global challenges. Biden emphasized the UN’s role in preserving peace, preventing conflicts, and alleviating human suffering while encouraging nations to lead in innovative ways and seek solutions to complex issues.
Regarding the inclusion of the African Union as a permanent member in the G20, Biden expressed support and noted that strengthening the G20 is essential for enhancing global institutions.
The decision to include the African Union in the G20 was initiated by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who invited the African Union to join as a permanent member during the 18th G20 Leaders’ Summit on September 9. The move received widespread appreciation, with the African Union expressing gratitude for its historic inclusion in the G20.
The ongoing 78th UNGA session brings together more than 140 world leaders to address pressing global issues. US President Joe Biden is notably the sole representative among the five permanent members of the UN Security Council attending the UNGA.
