January 20, 2021: Countdown to US Presidency
By Venkatesh Raghavan
World over, including from India, there were supportive noises and bytes not only from head of states, but also people from the common diaspora to President-elect Joe Biden assuming office in few hours from now, today, after the poll mandate that was mired in controversy was snuffed out amidst incidences of violence that marred the Capitol on January 6.
The former cold-war rivals of the US, Russia has expressed the hope that things will get satisfactorily resolved and pave the way for bridging good relations between the two countries. The Kremlin’s spokesperson Dmitry Peskov further iterated that Russia will behave itself as it has over the centuries and endeavour to foster good relations with the United States.
UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson expressed optimism over Biden’s assuming office, stating, “We look forward to working together on issues like climate change and combating the crisis precipitated by the pandemic.” Johnson also expressed optimism on strengthening bilateral ties, partnering each other in working towards common goals.
The President-elect on his part, has stressed the need for wearing face masks and maintaining social distancing on all federal property, stating, “It’s scientifically proved that this augurs well in containment of the COVID virus.” Biden on his day one in office is slated to sign on 15 agreements that includes America re-joining the Paris climate agreement and the reversal on Muslim-ban that was imposed by Trump. It will also entail a 100-day mandatory period for wearing of masks in all public places. Biden will be sworn in as America’s 46th president today with the whole world including China expecting the restoration of a cordial equation with the US. Besides, Biden is also expected to sign the immigrant Act that constituted a part of his pre-poll promises.
Interestingly, even after losing much steam, out-going President Donald Trump will continue to keep licking his wounds and will be the first out-going US President who fails to attend the inauguration of his successor. To make matters worse for him, people including Republican administrators and judges that were appointed by Trump rejected his pet theory of the electoral votes being stolen from him. Biden on his part, has so far augured well for the country by choosing experienced hands for key posts in his administration including those involved in global engagements.
Biden’s inauguration ceremony will witness performances from Jennifer Lopez, Garth Brooks, Tim McGraw besides Tom Hanks and a host of other celebrities. A primetime special titled “Celebrating America ” will be hosted by Hanks to usher in Biden and his deputy Kamala Harris assuming office today. The current swearing in is expected to be a far more euphoric moment for the World than witnessed during the first term welcoming of Barack Obama. Biden is expected to play a pivotal role in the global scenario.
