Proponents of high-level attendance at major sporting events argue that these gatherings provide essential opportunities for leaders to engage outside the rigid constraints of formal summits. By meeting in a neutral, public setting like a World Cup final, officials can humanize their interactions and potentially lower the temperature on long-standing diplomatic disputes. This approach allows for a more relaxed environment where personal rapport can be established, which is often a prerequisite for solving complex international problems.
Supporters point to the comments made by Donald Trump regarding the easing of tensions as evidence that such events can be productive. When leaders are seen together in a non-adversarial context, it can signal to their respective populations that cooperation is possible, even between nations with differing political ideologies. This can help stabilize markets and provide a sense of reassurance to the international community that lines of communication remain open.
Furthermore, the economic and cultural benefits of having global leaders present at such events cannot be overlooked. It elevates the profile of the host nation and reinforces the importance of international cooperation in a globalized world. For the leaders involved, it is a low-risk way to demonstrate their commitment to global engagement without the immediate pressure of signing binding agreements or addressing controversial policy issues.
Ultimately, the value lies in the flexibility of the setting. By removing the formality of a state visit, leaders can explore common ground more freely. If these interactions can lead to even small improvements in bilateral relations, the investment of time and resources is widely considered to be worth the effort for the participating governments.