Colombian President Gustavo Petro stands by the decision to rent a million-franc pavilion in Davos, amidst rising political debate.

The World Economic Forum (WEF) in Davos has sparked a heated debate in Colombia, primarily due to the staggering rental costs of the national pavilion. President Gustavo Petro has stepped forward to defend the one million franc expenditure for the pavos in Davos GR.

The controversy erupted when it was revealed that Petro’s delegation had secured a prime location on Davos’ main promenade, costing around one million francs for just four days. This lavish spending was sharply criticized by Maria Fernanda Cabal, a conservative Colombian MP and businesswoman. Cabal, known for her forthright views, lambasted the leftist president for what she deemed an extravagant and hypocritical expense.

Cabal expressed her dismay on the social media platform X (formerly Twitter), questioning Petro’s contradictory stance on capitalism and the World Economic Forum, while simultaneously splurging 4588 million pesos on a temporary residence in Switzerland.

Responding to these allegations, President Petro took to X to clarify his intentions. Contrary to the claims, he stated that the pavilion was not for personal use but was a strategic move to showcase Colombian tourism. He emphasized the importance of this public exhibition in Davos, noting its potential to draw the attention of influential journalists, dignitaries, and some of the wealthiest individuals in the world.

Earlier reports suggested that Petro might cancel his trip to Switzerland due to a delay in the inauguration ceremony of the Guatemalan President, which put his schedule in jeopardy. However, he later confirmed his attendance at the prestigious event in Grisons, followed by a planned visit to Pope Francis in the Vatican.

©Keystone/SDA