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 convening to address pressing challenges that require collective action.
Key topics on the agenda include geopolitical tensions, the escalating climate crisis, and the rapid technological transformation impacting artificial intelligence and automation on the global economy. Over 60 heads of state and government, alongside political leaders, business executives, and experts, aim to foster meaningful dialogue and find common ground to drive positive change.
Chinese Vice Premier Ding Xuexiang highlighted 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.
Echoing the call for collaboration, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen emphasized the need 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.
WEF Founder Klaus Schwab underscored the urgency of renewed cooperation amid growing global divisions. \"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.
Jeremy Jurgens, Managing Director of the WEF, addressed the significance of robust global governance in the face of rapid technological change. He highlighted China's contributions in economic growth, innovation, and environmental sustainability, underlining the importance of inclusive international collaboration.
As the world navigates complex challenges, the WEF Annual Meeting serves as a critical platform for leaders to collaborate and chart a course towards a more inclusive and sustainable future in the Intelligent Age.
Reference(s):
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