The 2025 edition of the World Economic Forum's (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 gathered to address the urgent need for collaboration in tackling shared challenges.
With over 60 heads of state and government in attendance, along with political leaders, business executives, and experts, the event is set to discuss critical issues ranging from geopolitical tensions and the accelerating climate crisis to rapid technological transformations such as artificial intelligence and automation impacting the global economy.
Chinese Vice Premier Ding Xuexiang underscored the importance of cooperation in advancing economic globalization during his speech at the forum. \"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,\" he stated.
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 emphasized that the growing divisions in the world necessitate renewed cooperation, calling for a spirit of optimism and collaboration. \"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,\" Schwab remarked.
WEF Managing Director Jeremy Jurgens highlighted the importance of strong global governance in the face of rapid technological change. He pointed to China's contributions in economic growth, innovation, and environmental sustainability, underlining the significance of inclusive international collaboration.
As the world navigates the complexities of the Intelligent Age, the discussions at Davos aim to find common ground and seize opportunities for positive change on today's most pressing global issues.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
