Macron to press Trump on Syria, Iran, and trade during state visit

World Today

French President Emmanuel Macron’s Monday arrival at the White House kicks off three days of pomp and politics.It’s the first official state visit of the Trump Administration, and the leaders will discuss key issues, ranging from Syria to Iran to trade.

CGTN’s Toby Muse outlines expectations for the visit.

French President Emmanuel Macron has the distinction of becoming the first world leader treated to an official state visit since U.S. President Donald Trump took office – and it comes with all the extra pomp. The trip comes as the U.S. and Europe are divided on a host of issues.

Macron will spend three days in the U.S. When his limousine first pulls up the White House driveway on Tuesday morning, Trump, the first lady, White House and administration officials, and hundreds of invited guests will be waiting on the South Lawn.

The visit offers Macron his first Oval Office meeting and a joint White House news conference with Trump.

There’s also a State Department lunch hosted by Vice President Mike Pence before Macron and his wife arrive for the state dinner. Macron will then travel to the State Department for a luncheon, at the invitation of Vice President Mike Pence. He will then attend a military ceremony at Arlington Cemetery.

In the evening, a state dinner will be hosted at the White House.

On Wednesday Macron will deliver a speech in English before a joint session of Congress. He will also participate in a town hall meeting with students from George Washington University.

The two presidents are expected to discuss growing trade tensions across the world. Right now the European Union is exempt from the new U.S. tariffs on steel and aluminum. But Macron is also opposed to Trump’s aggressive moves toward possible trade war with China and his proposed tariffs on billions of dollars’ worth of Chinese goods.

Other issues include the crisis in Syria and the Iran Nuclear deal – known as the JCPOA or Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action. While France and Europe want to keep the agreement, Trump has issued dark warnings that he may withdraw.

On the issue of Syria, Macron is likely to urge the U.S. to remain and help rebuild the country once war has ended. Macron argues that only by investing in the country can it avoid future chaos. Trump has made clear he wants out of Syria soon.

Macron is trying to keep relations tight between the E.U. and the U.S., especially as there has been a chill between the U.S. and Germany.

Some observers say France also sees a chance to replace America’s most important ally in Europe, the United Kingdom. Prime Minister Theresa May is embroiled in Brexit negotiations, giving France an opportunity to step in to become the major ally.

But while Macron has been on a charm offensive since Trump took office, his actual results are arguably few. Macron tried to convince Trump to remain in the Paris Climate Agreement and not to impose tariffs on steel and aluminum, both to no avail.