By Heather Timmons
WASHINGTON (Reuters) – Serving as Senate Foreign Relations Chair, Joe Biden lavished praise on former Secretary of State Henry Kissinger when he addressed Congress in 2007.
During a committee hearing on the future of Iraq, Biden referred to Kissinger as “synonymous with effective diplomacy” and one of the “best strategic minds in the country.” He acknowledged learning from Kissinger, expressing admiration for his approach of always having alternative plans.
Following Kissinger’s passing at age 100, Biden’s White House issued a statement about 24 hours after the news emerged, recounting his first meeting with Kissinger and acknowledging their disagreements throughout their careers.
Biden also extended condolences to Kissinger’s family and emphasized his impactful role in U.S. foreign policy and his contributions to important policy discussions across multiple generations.
Kissinger’s legacy included his pivotal role in various historic diplomatic openings and agreements, although his support for anti-communist dictatorships sparked controversy and accusations of being a war criminal.
The White House and other Biden officials carefully conveyed their condolences, recognizing Kissinger’s significant influence on foreign policy decisions and America’s global role.
(Reporting by Heather Timmons and Steve Holland; Editing by Caitlin Webber and Stephen Coates)
