Katy Perry Joins Trudeau at Davos to Discuss Soft Power

Former Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and international pop star Katy Perry appeared together at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, on January 23, 2024. Their presence underscored the importance of soft power in international relations, as Trudeau delivered a compelling speech addressing the global challenges of the current era.

Trudeau began his address by stating, “The 80 years of stability and prosperity that the world has seen since the end of the horrors of World War Two is over.” He emphasized that the world is now in a transitional phase, marked by significant geopolitical shifts. The former Prime Minister described a landscape where powerful nations increasingly resort to “hard power,” including military force and economic dominance, to pursue their national interests.

He argued that investing in people, diplomacy, and trade is essential for fostering prosperity at home and abroad. Trudeau highlighted the need for nations to build deep friendships, which can help them navigate global challenges.

As he outlined these points, Perry, seated in the front row, listened attentively. Trudeau noted several recent challenges facing the international community, including the COVID-19 pandemic, the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, the war in Gaza, and the rise of populism that has disrupted economies worldwide.

“Democracies and democratic values are backsliding everywhere around the world, including in some of the historically strongest democracies,” he stated. He cited the collective diplomatic, financial, and military support for Ukraine as a prime example of the effectiveness of soft power.

Trudeau also referenced Canada’s national unity, which has fostered a “Team Canada” approach to trade issues with the United States. He shared a recent anecdote involving a “date with an American girl to a rooftop bar in Montréal.” He humorously explained how the server informed her that American alcohol was unavailable, demonstrating how Canadians support each other during stressful times.

While he did not confirm that Perry was the American girl in question, the pair has been increasingly seen together since their relationship began to develop publicly. They were previously spotted enjoying drinks at a trendy bar in Montréal last July, and their appearances together have continued to draw media attention.

Their evolving relationship has included intimate moments, such as being photographed on Perry’s yacht off the coast of Santa Barbara, California, in October, and holding hands after attending a cabaret show in Paris later that month. In December, Trudeau and Perry visited Japan, where they engaged with former Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida and his wife, Yuko. Trudeau expressed gratitude for Kishida’s friendship and his commitment to maintaining an international rules-based order.

As Trudeau’s speech concluded, the synergy of their partnership in both personal and public spheres highlighted the potential of soft power in addressing global challenges. Their collaboration serves as a reminder of the impact that personal relationships can have on international diplomacy and cooperation.