The White House shrugged off concerns that the UN General Assembly would not have much political impact this year. President Joe Biden will deliver a speech this Tuesday before an audience that will not be attended by several important heads of state.

In his speech to the 78th UN General Assembly, Biden will “unveil to the world the steps he and his administration have taken to work with others to solve the world’s most serious challenges,” a senior administration official told reporters.

“He will lay out his vision of how countries, working within the framework of reformed and modernized international institutions, can build on their efforts to end conflict, uphold human rights and the rule of law, and help countries develop their economies.” he added. official.

Biden is also expected to discuss “significant successes in foreign policy” during his presidency, and defend America’s role in the world ahead of the 2024 presidential campaign. As the president seeks a second term, there is unease among world leaders about that role. it might look something like that after next year’s election.

Biden and Netanyahu will meet this Wednesday and, according to a senior official, “will discuss a range of bilateral and regional issues focused on the two countries’ shared democratic values ​​and a vision for a more stable, prosperous and integrated region. and compare notes on how to effectively counter and deter Iran.

But in the absence of large numbers in Russia, China, France and Britain – all permanent members of the UN Security Council – the Biden administration will be relegated to lower-level engagement with key allies and adversaries, all hoping to improve America’s outlook. on global infrastructure, food security, democratic values, and regional sovereignty.