Halifax International Security Forum returns without participation from Trump administration

Peter van Praagh discusses the return of the Halifax International Security Forum.

The Halifax International Security Forum will draw representatives from around the world this weekend, but one group will be noticeably absent: White House leadership.

Peter Van Praagh, president of the forum, confirmed the Donald Trump administration will be sitting out the event that brings together dozens of world leaders every year.

“Last year at this time it was right after the U.S. election and the theme was “New Era Arrived,” and we didn’t know how right we were,” Van Praagh told CTV News Atlantic’s Todd Battis on Wednesday.

“The difference is emanating from the White House. We have a great congressional delegation, that’s a really good sign.”

Van Praagh said this year’s forum will focus on the importance of democracy.

“Democracy has fallen off the agenda in the United States and that’s dangerous,” he said. “What we’re going to do is remind people that democracy is better than any other solution and we’re going to be nudging them to get back on track.”

Van Praagh said the event will also centre on the ongoing war in Ukraine and relations with China.

The forum runs from Friday to Sunday.

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