The picturesque town of Davos in Switzerland once again became the hub of global dialogue as the 2025 World Economic Forum (WEF) Annual Meeting commenced on Monday. With nearly 3,000 participants from 130 countries and regions, the event underscores the urgent need for international cooperation to tackle shared challenges in an increasingly interconnected world.
Themed \"Cooperation in the Intelligent Age\", this year's meeting brings together heads of state, government leaders, business executives, and experts to address critical issues ranging from geopolitical tensions and the accelerating climate crisis to rapid technological transformations, including the profound impact of artificial intelligence and automation on the global economy.
Chinese Vice Premier Ding Xuexiang delivered a compelling speech emphasizing the significance of collaboration in promoting 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 this sentiment, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen highlighted the necessity for global cooperation to prevent economic fragmentation. \"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 asserted.
Prior to the meeting's opening, WEF Founder Klaus Schwab addressed the growing divisions in the world, calling for a renewed 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 emphasized.
Jeremy Jurgens, Managing Director of the WEF, also underscored the importance of strong global governance amid 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.
As the world navigates the complexities of the Intelligent Age, the 2025 WEF Annual Meeting serves as a crucial platform for leaders and stakeholders to find common ground, drive meaningful dialogue, and seize opportunities for positive change on today's most pressing global issues.
Reference(s):
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