'Who's...next': Biden snaps at staffers before introducing Modi at event
United States President Joe Biden was caught on camera snapping at a staffer moments before introducing Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the Cancer Moonshot event. The incident occurred in Wilmington, Delaware, where leaders from Australia, Japan, and India had gathered for what could be the last Quad meeting under Biden's presidency. The video of this incident shared on X (formerly Twitter) captures the awkward moment the attendees at the event look at each other.
Video captures Biden's awkward moment at Quad meeting
The video shows Biden wrapping up his speech at the Cancer Moonshot event and waiting for his staffers to cue the next leader. After discussing the Quad's mission to tackle cancer, he said, "So I want to thank you all for being here. And now, who am I introducing next?" Following a brief pause, he asked again, "Who's next?" A staffer then pointed toward the stage, and PM Modi walked to the podium.
Watch the video here
Biden's gaffe sparks reactions on social media
As PM Modi joined Biden on stage, the US President quickly lightened the mood with a joke and a friendly gesture. However, this incident has reignited concerns about Biden's public gaffes, which were a point of contention during his now-suspended presidential campaign. Social media users have expressed their views on this incident, with one stating that "He is completely and totally cooked — and Kamala Harris covered it up."
Quad meeting focuses on 'Cancer Moonshot' initiative
The meeting was primarily focused on advancing Biden's "cancer moonshot" initiative, aimed at fostering collaboration among the US and its Quad partners to combat cancer. Biden expressed his admiration for their ability to discover new avenues for cooperation, stating, "Today was no different." He announced the Quad Cancer Moonshot with a focus on cervical cancer, noting that it claims 150,000 women's lives in the Indo-Pacific region annually.
Quad leaders issue 'Wilmington Declaration'
The four world leaders concluded their meeting by issuing a joint statement called the "Wilmington Declaration." The declaration reaffirms their commitment to maintaining an open, inclusive, and resilient Indo-Pacific region. The next Quad Leaders Summit will be hosted by India in 2025, with plans for a Quad Regional Ports and Transportation Conference in Mumbai.
