The 2025 edition of the World Economic Forum's (WEF) Annual Meeting commenced on Monday in Davos, Switzerland, bringing together nearly 3,000 participants from 130 countries and regions. Under the theme \"Cooperation in the Intelligent Age,\" global leaders are uniting to address the urgent need for collaboration in tackling shared challenges.
Attendees, including over 60 heads of state and government, political leaders, business executives, and experts, are set to discuss critical topics such as geopolitical tensions, the accelerating climate crisis, and the impact of rapid technological transformation—particularly artificial intelligence and automation—on the global economy.
In his keynote speech, Chinese Vice Premier Ding Xuexiang emphasized the pivotal role of cooperation in advancing economic globalization. \"Through cooperation to promote economic globalization, we will usher in a more vibrant, advanced, and sustainable new stage,\" he stated. \"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.\"
Echoing the call for unity, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen underscored the necessity of global collaboration to prevent economic fragmentation. \"We will need to work together to avoid a global race to the bottom,\" she declared. \"Because it is in no one's interest to break the bonds in the global economy.\"
Prior to the meeting's opening, WEF Founder Klaus Schwab highlighted the growing divisions within the world and the need for renewed cooperation. \"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 said, calling for a spirit of optimism and collaboration.
WEF Managing Director Jeremy Jurgens also addressed the importance of strong global governance in the face of rapid technological change. He highlighted China's contributions in areas such as economic growth, innovation, and environmental sustainability, underlining the importance of inclusive international collaboration.
The gathering in Davos aims to drive meaningful dialogue, find common ground, and seize opportunities to make positive changes on today's most pressing global issues. As the world navigates the complexities of the Intelligent Age, the emphasis on cooperation underscores a collective commitment to shaping a sustainable and inclusive future.
Reference(s):
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