Goldman Sachs boss hails French 'new dawn' as Davos begins

Emmanuel Macron has been praised for creating a “new dawn” in France by the boss of US finance giant Goldman Sachs.

Lloyd Blankfein’s remarks gave the French president another boost as he prepared to join the world’s political and business elite at the World Economic Forum in Davos.

Mr Macron flies to the Swiss ski resort tomorrow where his keynote speech is expected to draw a big audience.

Despite being offered a one-to-one meeting with Donald Trump, he will reportedly leave before the US president’s closing speech on Friday, leading to speculation about a “snub”.

Arrivals at Davos were disrupted this morning by record snowfalls. President Trump has been warned that his armoured helicopters might not be allowed in because they could trigger an avalanche.

Mr Macron built up expectations for his own arrival with a much-publicised summit of 140 global CEOs in the Palace of Versailles where he showcased investments worth more than £2 billion.

Mr Blankfein tweeted afterwards: “Great meeting ... Big effort — sincere and effective. Feels like a new day has dawned in France.”

Actress Cate Blanchett was today giving a keynote address on the refugee crisis, after an opening speech by Indian premier Narendra Modi.

Ms Blanchett and Sir Elton John were honoured in the alpine resort last night for raising awareness about human rights issues.

Theresa May will speak on Thursday, and Labour’s shadow chancellor John McDonnell on Friday.

Avalanches could endanger the town itself, local officials said. Two dozen residents have been evacuated from vulnerable areas.