U.S. Ambassador to Belgium Bill White criticized Katy Perry’s nonattendance during an America250 event in Brussels, a moment that drew attention at the anniversary gathering. The Daily Beast reported the remarks on Monday, June 29.Speaking on stage at Cinquantenaire Park on Sunday, June 28, White addressed the singer’s absence after organizers had invited her to perform. The comments followed Perry’s weather-canceled headlining slot at Belgium’s Werchter Boutique festival the prior evening and her statement citing safety.Earlier, in February, White told Belgian outlet The Bulletin that Perry’s contractual obligations limited her promotion of other Belgian events. The Brussels program also featured performances by the Zac Brown Band and country singer Alexis Wilkins.
