The 2025 World Economic Forum (WEF) Annual Meeting commenced in Davos, Switzerland, on Monday, drawing nearly 3,000 participants from 130 countries and regions. Under the theme \"Cooperation in the Intelligent Age\", global leaders convened to address the urgent need for collaboration in tackling shared challenges.
Over 60 heads of state and government, alongside political leaders, business executives, and experts, gathered to engage in meaningful dialogue on critical issues. Discussions are set to focus on geopolitical tensions, the accelerating climate crisis, and the rapid technological transformation impacting artificial intelligence and automation in the global economy.
Chinese Vice Premier Ding Xuexiang emphasized the significance of cooperation in promoting economic globalization during his speech at the forum. He stated, \"Through cooperation to promote economic globalization, we will usher in a more vibrant, advanced, and sustainable new stage. I believe we have the wisdom and capability to find mutually beneficial cooperation through communication and consultation, and I also recognize the challenges in further advancing economic globalization.\"
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen echoed the call for global cooperation. \"We will need to work together to avoid a global race to the bottom because it is in no one's interest to break the bonds in the global economy,\" she said.
Prior to the opening, WEF Founder Klaus Schwab highlighted the necessity for renewed cooperation amid growing global divisions. He urged for a spirit of optimism and collaboration, saying, \"Despite divergent positions and great uncertainties, the Annual Meeting 2025 will foster a spirit of cooperation and constructive optimism with the objective of shaping the forthcoming Intelligent Age in a more sustainable and inclusive way.\"
Jeremy Jurgens, Managing Director of the WEF, addressed the importance of strong global governance in the face of rapid technological change. He underscored China's contributions in areas such as economic growth, innovation, and environmental sustainability, highlighting the importance of inclusive international collaboration.
The gathering in Davos represents a pivotal moment for global leaders to find common ground and seize opportunities for positive change on today's most pressing issues. As the world navigates the complexities of the Intelligent Age, the emphasis on cooperation signals a commitment to building a more sustainable and inclusive future.
Reference(s):
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