Biden appoints CIA Director William Burns to his cabinet

(Patria) - U.S. President Joe Biden said he has asked CIA Director William Burns to become a member of his cabinet and one of his closest advisors on national security and foreign policy.

"Under his leadership, the CIA provides a clear, long-term approach to the greatest national security challenges of our nation," Biden said, referring to Burns' approach to Russia's invasion of Ukraine and the U.S. competition with China, Reuters reports.

The Washington Post earlier reported on this, saying Biden's move is largely symbolic and will not give Burns any new authorities.

Bonnie Glaser, head of the Indo-Pacific program at the German Marshall Fund of the United States, said the appointment reflects Biden's trust in Burns and his experience. He has "made a significant contribution to national security decision-making, especially regarding Russia and China," Glaser said.

Burns is not the first CIA director to become part of a presidential cabinet. Former President Bill Clinton also appointed his CIA directors John Deutch and George Tenet to serve in his cabinet.