By Ayhan Simsek
BERLIN (AA) - This year's Munich Security Conference will focus on transatlantic relations and serve as a platform to bridge the trust gap between the US and Europe, its chairman said Monday.
"Transatlantic relations are currently experiencing what I consider to be a significant crisis of confidence," Wolfgang Ischinger, who heads the world's largest informal security gathering, told a news conference in Berlin about the three-day conference, set to start on Friday.
"That is why it is particularly gratifying that the American side is taking such a keen interest in Munich."
He said a large US delegation will attend, including Trump administration officials, senior representatives, and senators. Beyond speeches and panel discussions, the three-day event will provide opportunities for bilateral meetings, Ischinger said.
"I expect over 50 members of the US Congress and a government delegation led by Secretary of State Marco Rubio, along with numerous senior officials from relevant departments," he said.
California Governor Gavin Newsom, a top rival of US President Donald Trump, will also attend, the chairman confirmed. Ischinger noted that the conference's invitation policy extends far beyond Washington, because “America consists of more than just the White House.”
Organizers expect over 200 senior government representatives from approximately 120 countries at the 62nd Munich conference—including more than 60 heads of state and government, over 65 foreign ministers, over 30 defense ministers, and senior representatives from more than 40 international organizations.
The conference opens Friday morning with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, in his first appearance in that role. He is expected to address Germany’s place in Europe and the world.
Rubio is scheduled to speak Saturday. On Sunday, European Union leaders are set to discuss European security, transatlantic relations, and Ukraine.