At the 2026 World Economic Forum in Davos, President Donald Trump publicly credited Senator Marco Rubio, now serving as Secretary of State, for shaping his approach to diplomacy. Speaking to the audience, Trump said, “I became a diplomat for the first time. You know who taught me that, Marco Rubio…Marco has been fantastic. Marco, stand up, please. You have done a great job as Sec. of State.”

The praise marks a striking evolution in Trump’s relationship with Rubio, who was famously dubbed “Little Marco” during the 2016 Republican primary. Over the past decade, Rubio has transitioned from a political rival to a key ally, playing a central role in shaping U.S. foreign policy under the 2025 Trump administration.

Rubio’s early tenure as Secretary of State has focused on stabilizing the Middle East and containing China’s growing influence, efforts highlighted in recent State Department briefings. Trump’s public acknowledgment emphasizes Rubio’s strategic impact on U.S. diplomacy and signals a collaborative approach to advancing America’s international priorities.

Observers noted that Trump’s remarks not only celebrate Rubio’s contributions but also highlight the administration’s willingness to bridge past political divides in pursuit of unified foreign policy objectives. The interaction reflects the evolving dynamics of U.S. leadership and the critical role of trusted advisors in guiding global engagement.