The President of the European Central Bank (ECB), Christine Lagarde, abruptly left a private VIP dinner in Davos on Tuesday evening. The reason was a fierce speech by US Trade Representative Howard Lutnick, in which he openly criticized European economies.
Lagarde resigns after criticism of Europe
The incident took place during an exclusive dinner with more than a hundred guests at the World Economic Forum in Davos. According to attendees, Lutnick began his speech with sharp criticism of European economies, which he said are falling short compared to the economic strength of the United States. The tone of his speech caused discomfort among European guests.
When Lutnick intensified his rant, Christine Lagarde reportedly got up, visibly irritated, and left the dinner early. The speech was received with boos, according to sources.
Uncomfortable setting, sensitive timing
The timing of the eruption is spicy. Lagarde previously warned that a return of Donald Trump to the White House would entail economic risks for Europe. She herself was director of the International Monetary Fund for many years and previously Minister of Finance in France.
The ECB did not comment on the incident. Lutnick or his spokesperson have also not yet responded. The event was first reported by The Wall Street Journal.
Source: https://newsbit.nl/christine-lagarde-verlaat-boos-diner-in-davos-na-harde-uithaal-van-amerikaanse-topambtenaar/
