US President Joe Biden promised to rebuild his country's partnership with the African Union (AU) moments after he delivered his first foreign policy speech since taking office.

His predecessor, Donald Trump, sparked a row in 2018 over his alleged use of the word "shithole" to describe African nations.

Mr Trump later denied that he is racist.

On Friday the White House tweeted a video of President Biden's remarks to the continental body ahead of its 34th summit.

The Biden-Harris Administration is committed to working with the African Union to advance our shared vision of a better future.

Watch President Biden’s Message to African Union Summit Participants: pic.twitter.com/tXFX4Tp9PD

— The White House (@WhiteHouse) February 5, 2021

He said "My administration is committing to rebuilding our partnership around the world and reengaging with international institutions like the African Union.

"We also must confront the serious challenges we face. That includes investing more in global health, defeating Covid-19 and working to prevent, detect and respond to future health crises, and partnering with the African CDC and other institutions to advance health security."

"We also must confront the serious challenges we face. That includes investing more in global health, defeating Covid-19 and working to prevent, detect and respond to future health crises, and partnering with the African CDC and other institutions to advance health security," he added.