US President Joe Biden has tested negative for COVID-19, signaling his recovery from the virus and confirming his visit to India for the G20 Summit. The announcement came after he tested negative on Tuesday. In contrast, US First Lady Jill Biden, who also contracted the disease, is expected to remain in the United States.
White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre provided an update during a briefing, stating, “The first lady is experiencing mild symptoms and will remain in Delaware for the week. President Biden tested negative last night for COVID-19 and tested negative again today.”
Despite testing negative and showing no symptoms of the disease, President Biden will adhere to safety protocols during his visit. He will wear a mask indoors and around people in accordance with CDC guidelines. The president will only remove his mask when maintaining a sufficient distance from others, both indoors and outdoors.
The uncertainty surrounding President Biden’s India visit for the G20 Summit was caused by the COVID-19 infection affecting First Lady Jill Biden. She will remain at their home in Delaware while the president travels to India.
Elizabeth Alexander, Jill Biden’s spokesperson, confirmed her positive COVID-19 status, saying, “This evening, the First Lady tested positive for COVID-19. She is currently experiencing only mild symptoms. She will remain at their home in Rehoboth Beach, Delaware.”
President Biden is scheduled to depart for New Delhi, India, for the G20 Summit on Thursday. During his visit, he will participate in a bilateral meeting with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. On Saturday, President Biden will engage in the official sessions of the G20 Summit, 2023, as stated by Jake Sullivan, the National Security Advisor of the United States, during the press briefing.
On September 8, President Biden is set to have a bilateral meeting with PM Modi on the sidelines of the summit. In addition to India, he is also scheduled to visit Vietnam later this month.
During the G20 Summit, President Biden will reaffirm the United States’ commitment to the G20 as the premier global forum for economic cooperation. He will address a range of issues, including the social impact of Russia’s conflict in Ukraine, according to the White House.
Following the G20 Summit in New Delhi, President Biden will proceed to Hanoi, Vietnam, for a visit scheduled for September 10.
