The picturesque town of Davos, Switzerland, became the epicenter of global dialogue as the 2025 edition of the World Economic Forum's (WEF) Annual Meeting commenced on Monday. With nearly 3,000 participants from 130 countries and regions, the forum's theme, \"Cooperation in the Intelligent Age,\" highlights the urgent need for collaboration to tackle shared global challenges.
As geopolitical tensions escalate, the accelerating climate crisis intensifies, and technological transformations reshape economies, leaders underscored the necessity of unified action. Over 60 heads of state and government joined political leaders, business executives, and experts to engage in meaningful dialogue, seeking common ground and opportunities to effect positive change on pressing global issues.
Chinese Vice Premier Ding Xuexiang emphasized the significance of cooperation in promoting economic globalization during his address. \"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 unity. \"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 opening, WEF Founder Klaus Schwab highlighted the growing divisions within the world and the need for renewed cooperation. He called for a spirit of optimism and collaboration, aiming to shape a more sustainable and inclusive future in the emerging intelligent era. \"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.
Jeremy Jurgens, Managing Director of the WEF, addressed the importance of strong global governance in the face of rapid technological change. He highlighted contributions from countries around the world, including China's role in economic growth, innovation, and environmental sustainability, underlining the importance of inclusive international collaboration.
As the forum progresses, participants are expected to delve into critical topics such as the impact of artificial intelligence and automation on the global economy, climate action strategies, and ways to alleviate geopolitical tensions. The collective efforts at the WEF aim to harness the potential of the Intelligent Age for the benefit of all, fostering a future defined by cooperation and shared prosperity.
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