Boeing’s CEO, Dave Calhoun has warned the audience at the Berlin aviation summit about the prospect of isolationism in the U.S. damaging exports and the economy.
Calhoun did not express a preference between Joe Biden and Donald Trump, both of whom have taken stances on tariffs and trade relationships, particularly with China.
Boeing’s business in high-growth markets like China has been impacted by strained relations between countries, affecting aircraft purchases and deliveries.
During the on stage interview Calhoun emphasised the importance of free trade, expressed worries about isolationism leading to economic damage and political turnover, and highlighted the need for maintaining strong economic relationships.
“Isolation then breeds disenchantment; disenchantment ultimately breeds political turnover. That’s the world I worry about with respect to isolation, and I don’t like any of the signs I see.”
