The President of the United States, Donald Trump will travel to Davos on Thursday to attend the World Economic Forum (WEF). The event arises at a time when America has survived a government shutdown following the passing of the federal government spending bill on Monday evening. It was clear on Tuesday that Trump will attend the WEF even though the news of the first lady not attending the event raised some eyebrows.
Trump’s Message
The White House informed the media today that Trump’s message at Davos, Switzerland on Thursday is “America is open for business.” Donald Trump will reiterate his commitment to domestic and global economic growth, Domestic and global prosperity.
Gary Cohen, the Director of White House National Economic Council, told reporters that Trump wants to make it clear that there cannot be free and open trade if the countries participating cannot be held accountable. He informed that the President and his delegates wish to strengthen ties with other world leaders attending WEF. He also wants to catalyze international business support for his agenda. Cohen went on to say that the President will reiterate the importance of a prosperous America – a prosperous America benefits the world because when the US grows, the world also grows.
Trump is also expected to reiterate his commitment to fair economic competition. Accompanying him is a team of about 350 comprised of business and government officials. A group left on Tuesday and the rest are going today to meet with other officials in Davos to discuss issues such as trade, border security, and cybersecurity.
Objective of the WEF
The WEF focuses on finding shared solutions to global economic and security problems hence this year’s theme – ‘Creating a Shared Future in a Fractured World.’ These themes are opposed to Trump’s protectionist and isolationist policies and remarks. Trump’s campaign eschewed most of his predecessor’s preaching such as free trade and a global security presence. He pledged to scrap off some of the free trade deals secured by his predecessors.
Trump’s attendance is the first after two decades. Being a revered business mogul before politics, he has never gotten an invitation to the annual forum. Is he going to be brandished by other world leaders for his strong arm form of leadership? The President will make his speech on Friday which doubles as the last day for the forum.
