For the first time in U.S. history, a president-elect will welcome foreign leaders for one of the most American political traditions — the peaceful transfer of power. President-elect Donald Trump has extended invitations to several foreign leaders for his upcoming inauguration.
Chinese President Xi Jinping will not attend the inauguration but is sending Vice President Han Zheng as his representative. The relationship between the U.S. and China may face challenges under the new administration, as some of Trump's Cabinet picks are known for their tough stance on China.
Argentine President Javier Milei, an 'anarcho-capitalist,' has been in close contact with Trump and is set to attend multiple inaugural events. He hopes to strengthen ties with the U.S. to aid Argentina in reaching a new deal with the International Monetary Fund.
Italian Premier Giorgia Meloni, who has visited Mar-a-Lago, will also be present at the swearing-in ceremony. Meloni is expected to form a closer alliance with Trump compared to her relations with President Joe Biden.
Former Georgia President Salome Zourabichvili will attend the ceremony as a guest of U.S. Rep. Joe Wilson. Georgia has faced political turmoil, with Zourabichvili emphasizing the country's importance in the region and the threat posed by Russia.
French President Emmanuel Macron will not attend, but far-right figures from France, including Eric Zemmour and Marion Maréchal, are expected to be present at the inauguration.
Other leaders invited to the inauguration include representatives from Ecuador, Paraguay, and Taiwan. While Taiwan's delegates will not attend the ceremony due to weather conditions, they plan to meet with American politicians and scholars to strengthen Taiwan-U.S. relations.
Overall, the 60th U.S. presidential inauguration will see a diverse group of foreign leaders in attendance, reflecting the global significance of the event and the diplomatic relationships at play.
