Ivanka Trump takes center stage at Trudeau meeting

Ivanka Trump has significant business interests that have become the focus for government ethics watchdogs

WASHINGTON DC:

US President Donald Trump's daughter Ivanka got a plum spot at America's highest table on Monday, attending her father's meeting with Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and businesswomen from both countries.

Ivanka sat next to the 45-year-old Canadian premier in the White House Cabinet Room and opened the discussion after both leaders had spoken. The appearance comes amid questions over the separation of Trump family businesses from the official roles of the president and his relatives.

Wonderful meeting with Canadian PM @JustinTrudeau and a group of leading CEO's & business women from Canada🇨🇦and the United States🇺🇸 pic.twitter.com/Rxr31QpxMK

— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) February 13, 2017

Trump is the first president in modern times to refuse to release his tax returns or divest from his business interests - choosing instead to put his sons in charge. His daughter also has significant business interests that have become the focus for government ethics watchdogs.

A great discussion with two world leaders about the importance of women having a seat at the table! 🇺🇸🇨🇦 pic.twitter.com/AtiSiOoho0

— Ivanka Trump (@IvankaTrump) February 13, 2017

Trump last week tweeted that Ivanka had been "treated so unfairly" by Nordstrom, an upscale department-store chain that dropped her fashion brand.

My daughter Ivanka has been treated so unfairly by @Nordstrom. She is a great person -- always pushing me to do the right thing! Terrible!

— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) February 8, 2017

And a key Trump aide is facing a possible investigation after pitching the president's daughter's fashion brand on television.

Speaking with the White House seal clearly visible over her shoulder, Counsellor to the President Kellyanne Conway gave Ivanka Trump's clothing a rave review during a Fox interview, urging shoppers to "go buy Ivanka's stuff."