Two major speeches by two of the world’s most powerful leaders, delivered on opposite sides of the planet: For China, it was a call for unity to overcome obstacles through innovation and “opening up” — a time-honoured phrase in Chinese politics — to eventually accomplish national rejuvenation. Seven thousand miles away, President Donald Trump addressed both chambers of the US Congress, vowing to levy tariffs on imports and defeat inflation to « make America great again » — an equally resonant phrase for many in the United States. The paths their leaders choose will shape both countries’ futures — and the rest of the world’s, too. For in-depth analysis and a deeper perspective on the world’s « multilateral trading system » as it faces America’s new socio-political and economic policies under the Trump administration, FRANCE 24’s François Picard is pleased to welcome John WH Denton AO, Secretary General of the International Chamber of Commerce in Paris.
