During a virtual address to business leaders at the World Economic Forum's annual meeting in Davos, Switzerland, President Donald Trump covered a wide range of topics.
Trump expressed his concerns about the European Union, the US trade deficit, and reiterated his stance on imposing tariffs. He emphasized his message to businesses worldwide to manufacture their products in America to benefit from low taxes, warning of tariffs for those who choose otherwise.
The President boasted about his election victory and criticized the policies of his predecessor, highlighting what he called a 'revolution of common sense' since his inauguration.
Trump also discussed his administration's stance on clean energy, stating that the US had withdrawn from the Paris Climate Accord and ended support for electric vehicles. He claimed that the market demand for better fuel efficiency, including electric vehicles, was driven by consumers.
Regarding economic matters, Trump called for immediate interest rate cuts in response to falling oil prices, although he acknowledged that market forces largely determine borrowing costs.
On the international front, Trump expressed hope for peace efforts between Russia and Ukraine, emphasizing the importance of resolving conflicts in the region. He also touched on the need for NATO members to increase defense spending to 5% of their GDP.
Trump outlined his plans to address energy needs for artificial intelligence and emphasized the importance of fair trade relations with China over the next four years, aiming for a balanced and equitable partnership.
While some of the President's statements were met with skepticism, his address provided insights into his administration's priorities and goals for the future.