President Trump addressed the World Economic Forum via video, highlighting the U.S. ambitions in artificial intelligence, cryptocurrencies, and advocating for trade tariffs and reduced oil prices. His remarks sparked discussions on his potential return to the White House and its effects on global relations. Panama’s president countered Trump’s comments on the Panama Canal. Additionally, concerns arose over Trump’s withdrawal from the WHO amid the pandemic, while China’s Vice Premier criticized protectionism. The event drew over 50 world leaders.
President Trump’s Address at the World Economic Forum
In a wide-ranging speech delivered via live video at the World Economic Forum in Davos-Klosters, Switzerland, President Trump emphasized the United States’ ambition to become a leading force in artificial intelligence and cryptocurrencies. He also discussed the need for tariffs on imported goods, urged OPEC to lower oil prices, and expressed confidence that global interest rates would decline. Additionally, he called for NATO allies to boost their defense spending.
Global Reactions to Trump’s Policies
While participating virtually, Trump engaged in discussions with notable figures such as Klaus Schwab, the WEF founder, and other prominent leaders in finance and energy. Although Trump was not physically present, his potential return to the White House has sparked conversations among attendees regarding its implications for international relations.
In a direct response to Trump’s comments about the Panama Canal during his inauguration, Panama’s president, José Raúl Mulino, firmly stated that the canal rightfully belongs to Panama and dismissed Trump’s statements as ‘misinformed’ and legally unfounded.
Following his inauguration, Trump made headlines by signing decrees to withdraw the U.S. from the Paris Climate Agreement for a second time. His administration also reversed several environmental policies from his predecessor, including incentives for electric vehicle purchases, while declaring a national energy emergency. As one of the largest greenhouse gas emitters, the U.S. plays a significant role in global climate discussions.
At the forum, participants are keen to know more about Trump’s recent decision to pull the U.S. out of the World Health Organization (WHO), critiquing its management of the COVID-19 pandemic. This move raised concerns among public health experts, especially as the H5N1 avian flu outbreak is being closely monitored in the U.S. as a potential threat.
China’s Vice Premier Ding Xuexiang responded to Trump’s policies, emphasizing that protectionism yields no benefits and that the trade war has no winners. He advocated for both expanding economic globalization and improving its distribution.
Trump is among over 50 world leaders attending the week-long event, which is expected to draw nearly 3,000 participants from more than 130 countries, including prominent figures such as Ursula von der Leyen, Olaf Scholz, and António Guterres.