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In his first speech before the UN General Assembly, President Obama attempted to distance himself from Bush-era policies, but firmly emphasized that the world can’t complain about the US in one breath while waiting for it to solve the world’s problems in the next.
“Those who used to chastise America for acting alone in the world cannot now stand by and wait for America to solve the world’s problems alone,” said Obama in put-up-or-shut-up comments before a packed U.N. General Assembly hall. “Now is the time for all of us to take our share of responsibility for a global response to global challenges.”
Obama’s message was nothing new, as countless American Presidents have come before the UN speaking of increased global cooperation. The difference however, was in the perception that Obama brought a fresh perspective to the table in stark contrast to his predecessor, who was known for presenting allies with “my way or the highway.”