World Leaders React to the Inauguration Speech of the New U.S. President

Hours after Donald Trump's inauguration speech as the new President of the United States, world leaders reacted to his statements. Among them, the Vice Chancellor of Germany stated that his country must prepare for a "difficult era" under Trump. According to Reuters, Sigmar Gabriel said on Friday, January 20, in response to Trump's remarks: "What we heard today had a very nationalistic tone. I think we must prepare ourselves for a difficult era." In an interview with German television "ZDF," he added that Trump was "extraordinarily serious" in his inauguration speech, which means he will pursue his promises regarding trade and other issues with actions. Gabriel emphasized that Europe and Germany must stand together to "defend our interests." The United States is Germany's largest trading partner, and Trump has warned that his administration will impose a 35% border tax on BMW cars that the company intends to produce in its new factory in Mexico and export to the U.S. The new U.S. President stated in his inauguration speech: "From this moment on, America will be the priority." Trump added: "This trend that is destroying Americans must stop now. Every decision regarding trade, taxes, immigration, and foreign policy will be made in the interests of American workers and families." On the other hand, the President of Mexico congratulated his American counterpart but emphasized that sovereignty, national interests, and support for Mexicans will be a priority. Enrique Peña Nieto wrote on his Twitter account that he is seeking "respectful" dialogue with the Trump administration. Mexicans are angry about Trump's plan to build a wall on the southern U.S. border to prevent illegal immigrants from entering. The new U.S. President has repeatedly stated that Mexicans should pay for this wall. He has also criticized American companies that move their manufacturing plants to Mexico. Meanwhile, Pope Francis, the leader of Catholics worldwide, urged Trump to prioritize moral values in his actions and said he should take care of the poor. Financial markets also reacted to the beginning of Donald Trump's presidency. While the U.S. dollar lost some of its value, stock markets experienced positive growth. Reuters also reported that Trump's inauguration speech raised investors' concerns about protectionist trade policies. In Moscow, Trump's speech also provoked reactions. According to the Itar-Tass news agency, Konstantin Kosachev, the head of the Foreign Affairs Committee of the Russian Federation Council, stated that Trump's remarks were commendable. He noted that Trump's words were directed specifically at Americans and not at the entire world.