In a world where digital communication is the norm, President Biden stands out by using a more personal and nostalgic approach to diplomacy. Rather than sending an email or a text, he takes the time to write personal notes to world leaders, like Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen. This gesture of inviting her to the White House shows his commitment to maintaining strong relationships with allies.
During their two-hour meeting in the Oval Office, Prime Minister Frederiksen made a lasting impression on President Biden’s granddaughters, who had previously met her at the NATO summit in Madrid. This family seal of approval speaks volumes about the prime minister’s character and their rapport with the Biden family.
President Biden’s personal touch extends beyond his interactions with Prime Minister Frederiksen. It is a defining aspect of his foreign policy strategy, which combines traditional politicking with a familial flair. This unique approach not only sets him apart from recent U.S. leaders but also enhances U.S. credibility and moral authority, particularly after the Trump administration.
According to Liana Fix, a European fellow at the Council on Foreign Relations, President Biden represents a nostalgia for the 20th century when the West was strong and relations were clear during the Cold War. His experience as a senator and vice president has honed his personal appeal, allowing him to navigate diplomatic waters and unite allies in response to the Russian invasion of Ukraine.
This personal approach will be tested once again at the NATO summit in Lithuania, where Ukraine’s potential admission into the alliance is a divisive issue. President Biden’s interactions with world leaders, whether in the Oval Office or on European soil, offer him an opportunity to showcase his foreign policy expertise. This is especially crucial as some Americans question his ability to serve another term due to his age.
While his age may be seen as a liability at home, diplomats who have met with President Biden emphasize that it has no bearing on their negotiations. Despite being 80 years old, the president remains focused on the task at hand. His intergenerational appeal, respect, and authenticity have earned him the trust and respect of younger world leaders, even those born after his own children.
The bond between President Biden and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is a prime example of his ability to connect with younger leaders. President Biden has provided substantial support to Ukraine, bolstering its war effort against Russia. Their personal bond has strengthened their relationship, with President Biden, in particular, giving Zelenskyy the assurance that he has his back.
President Biden’s personal touch extends beyond his relationship with Zelenskyy. He often deviates from strictly business interactions when meeting with world leaders. For example, during Uruguay’s President Luis Lacalle Pou’s recent visit to the White House, their meeting turned into a casual get-together, complete with a movie recommendation and even an impromptu game of catch. This personal touch helps build rapport and adds warmth to diplomatic relations.
Additionally, President Biden’s diplomatic style is reflected in his body language with world leaders such as French President Emmanuel Macron. They have been photographed arm in arm, showing a close connection that can help smooth tensions when conflicts arise. For instance, after tensions between France and the U.S. over a submarine deal with Australia, President Biden’s admission of the rollout’s mishandling allowed the two leaders to move forward and strengthen their relationship.
In conclusion, President Biden’s personal and nostalgic approach to diplomacy sets him apart as a unique leader on the global stage. His ability to connect with world leaders of all ages and backgrounds through personal gestures and bonds contributes to his foreign policy success. Despite concerns about his age, his authenticity and experience make him a trusted figure in international relations.
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