The visit of French President Emmanuel Macron is a great example of how Trump handles himself on delicate issues. While the two leaders have a different view of the situation regarding the unsigned Iran "treaty," even the consummate European Macron admits that Trump has some interesting views which need to be considered. These two leaders, generations apart, seem to have a liking for each other that can only improve relations between France and the United States and Macron seemed truly touched by the attention and courtesy with which he has been treated, much unlike the expectations from our American press.
Trump, the businessman has transitioned to Trump, the President, in a way much different than most expected, but it should be no surprise. After all, in his international business dealings just like dealings at home, Trump learned to approach each opportunity in a manner appropriate for the individual situation. And Trump is now doing just that with world leaders. Trump and Macron will, of course, continue to disagree on many issues, but they will be able to disagree in a manner that will maintain respect for each other's nation and people and allow for solid discourse.
Contrast that to the way President Obama dealt with Israeli Prime Minister Bibi Netanyahu a few years ago in Washington. Entering the White House for a scheduled meeting, Netanyahu was ushered into a waiting room for nearly an hour while Obama continued family dinner even though he knew the Prime Minister was expected. He was also escorted out the kitchen door when the meeting was over.
We can love Trump or we can hate Trump, but if we want to be honest with ourselves we must admit that the man knows how to get things done and he is not one who takes no for an answer. Frankly, at this time in our nation's history and with all the international struggles that he inherited, America needs a President like Trump. I am sure when Macron returns to Paris there will be no illusions in his mind about where the President stands and what is important to him. And that's healthy in an international relationship which requires mutual respect.