Biden at the opening of the Summit of the Americas: Democracy is an “essential component” of our region

June 9, 2022 08:01

US President Joe Biden urged leaders of the Americas to demonstrate the gains of democracy as he opened a summit that brought together the majority of them in Los Angeles, which is hosting the event.

“When democracy is under attack around the world, let us unite once again and renew our conviction that democracy is not only the hallmark,” Biden said, adding that it is “the essential ingredient for the future of the Americas.”

“At this summit, we have an opportunity to collaborate on some bold ideas and ambitious actions, and to demonstrate the tremendous power of democracy to our people,” Biden added.

Biden welcomed the presidents of the Americas to the Central Los Angeles Convention Center, where a dance performance by Cuban-American producer and musician Emilio Estefan was performed, before two days of meetings focused on immigration, climate change and food insecurity began.

Biden said, “Our region is large and diverse. We do not always agree on everything,” adding that democratic countries can overcome differences “with mutual respect and dialogue.”

Source: AFP