BIDEN SAYS PASSING THE TORCH TO A NEW GENERATION BEST WAY TO UNITE THE NATION

WASHINGTON, July 25 (Bernama-Anadolu) -- United States (US) President Joe Biden, in an Oval Office address on Wednesday, explained his decision to withdraw from the presidential race, stating that the best way to unite the nation is by handing over leadership to a younger generation.

"I decided the best way forward is to pass the torch to a new generation. That's the best way to unite our nation," Anadolu Agency (AA) quoted Biden as saying after exiting the race following mounting pressure from his fellow Democrats.

He also endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris as the Democratic nominee for president ahead of the November election.

"I need to unite my party in this critical endeavour. I revere this office, but I love my country more," said Biden.

"It's been the honour of my life to serve as your president. But in the defence of democracy, which is at stake, I think it's more important than any title," he added.

The president also praised Harris, describing her as "tough" and "capable."

"She's been an incredible partner to me and a leader for our country. Now the choice is up to you, the American people," he said.

Biden said he will focus on his duties as president over the next few months, citing efforts to lower costs for families, grow the economy, defend freedoms, call out hate and extremism, and protect children from guns.

He said he would continue rallying a coalition of nations to stop Russian President Vladimir Putin from taking over Ukraine and keep NATO strong, as well as support allies in the Pacific.

Biden also noted that when he assumed office in 2020, the conventional wisdom was that China would surpass the US, saying, "That's not the case anymore."

He also pledged to work to end the war in Gaza.

"And I'm going to keep working to end the war in Gaza, bring home all the hostages, and bring peace and security to the Middle East and end this war," he said.

-- BERNAMA-ANADOLU