Biden says the world stands at an "inflection point" in first address to U.N.

Washington — President Biden said the global community stands at an "inflection point in history" amid the compounding crises of the COVID-19 pandemic, climate change and other challenges, telling world leaders they must "work together as never before" in his first address as president to the United Nations General Assembly on Tuesday.

"Simply put, we stand, in my view, at an inflection point in history," Mr. Biden said. "And I'm here today to share with you how the United States intends to work with partners and allies to answer these questions, and the commitment of my new administration to help lead the world toward a more peaceful, prosperous future for all people." 

Mr. Biden's address came as he sought to put the U.S. on firmer footing with allies and reassure world leaders that his administration will not be an extension of the chaotic four years under former President Donald Trump. But the U.S. is facing heightened tensions with U.S. allies due to the chaotic exit from Afghanistan, which was completed last month. The Biden administration is also grappling with the fallout from a submarine deal the U.S. brokered with Australia and the United Kingdom, which has caused a rift with France, the nation's oldest ally.