Davos 2025: Key highlights ahead of Trump's speech at the World Economic Forum
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US President Donald Trump is set to deliver his first major address to the World Economic Forum (WEF) in Davos, Switzerland, via video link today at 16:00 GMT. This marks his first significant engagement with global business and political leaders since assuming office as the 47th president of the United States on January 20.
The annual meeting, held under the theme "Collaboration for the Intelligent Age," has drawn approximately 3,000 participants from 130 countries, including over 50 heads of state and government. Discussions this year are expected to focus on pressing global issues such as the Russia-Ukraine conflict, economic policies, the rise of artificial intelligence, and ongoing tensions in the Middle East.
Key Developments So Far:
Trump's Policies Criticized:
Oxfam America’s Nabil Ahmed criticized President Trump for “pandering to billionaires,” calling the WEF a “festival of wealth” that fuels inequality. Ahmed accused Trump of prioritizing tax cuts for corporations and wealthy backers, which he claimed contributed to inflation and widened the wealth gap.
Energy Policies Diverge:
On his first day in office, Trump declared a national energy emergency, accelerating fossil fuel production while freezing new wind farm development. Analysts warn this could leave the US lagging behind Europe, which is pushing ahead with renewable energy projects to achieve energy independence.
NATO Spending Debate:
Trump’s call for NATO members to increase defense spending to 5% of GDP has sparked resistance. While NATO leaders, such as Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte, acknowledge the need for greater investment in defense, many argue that the proposed threshold is unrealistic, especially given the economic strains caused by inflation and the war in Ukraine.
Tensions in the Middle East:
Jordanian Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi stressed the urgency of avoiding another conflict in the Israeli-occupied West Bank, amid ongoing military operations in Jenin. Meanwhile, Iraqi President Abdul Latif Rashid emphasized the need for a long-term solution to the Gaza conflict and a democratic transition in post-Assad Syria.
As anticipation builds for Trump’s speech, global leaders are watching closely to see how the US will position itself on key global challenges under his administration.
