The organizers of the World Economic Forum announced that US President Donald Trump will personally attend the forum's annual meeting, scheduled to be held in the Swiss Alps resort of Davos next week. This participation is a highlight of this year's global economic agenda. Børge Brende, the forum's president, confirmed at a press conference that he welcomed President Trump, noting that he will be accompanied by "the largest US delegation ever to attend the forum," reflecting the importance the US administration places on this international gathering.
Return of the American presidential presence
Trump's participation this year is particularly significant, coming after his virtual appearance at the 2025 edition, which followed his inauguration for his second term. This marks his first in-person attendance since 2020, during his first term. The US president's presence, accompanied by a large delegation, is seen as a strong signal of Washington's desire to be directly involved in shaping global economic policies and engaging with political and business elites in the unique Davos setting.
The importance of the forum and its historical context
Founded in 1971, the World Economic Forum has transformed over the past five decades from a gathering of European leaders into a leading global platform that brings together heads of state, government leaders, and top corporate executives. Its ability to unite diverse viewpoints and provide a space for informal dialogue, free from rigid protocols, makes it an ideal venue for launching major international initiatives and discussing complex geopolitical and economic challenges.
Intense international presence and balance of power
Alongside the overwhelming American presence, the forum is witnessing strong Chinese participation, with organizers confirming the attendance of a high-level delegation headed by the Chinese Vice Premier, representing the world's second-largest economy. This simultaneous presence of global economic giants lends paramount importance to this year's forum theme, "The Spirit of Dialogue," at a time when the world needs to bridge the economic and political divide.
The list of attendees also includes key figures on the European and international stage, among them Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, six heads of state and government from the G7, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, and European Central Bank President Christine Lagarde. This diplomatic gathering suggests that the agenda for the meeting, which runs from Monday, January 19, to Friday, January 23, will extend beyond economic matters to encompass security, energy, and international politics.
Numbers and forecasts
The tranquil Swiss resort is expected to transform into a hub of diplomatic and economic activity, hosting 64 heads of state and government, and more than 850 business leaders and CEOs of major global companies this year. Through its various sessions, the forum aims to foster international cooperation and forge shared visions for addressing future challenges, capitalizing on the momentum generated by the high-level attendance of global decision-makers.
