DAVOS, Switzerland — The 2025 edition of the World Economic Forum's (WEF) annual meeting opened on Monday, bringing together nearly 3,000 participants from 130 countries and regions. Under the theme "Cooperation in the Intelligent Age," the summit emphasizes the urgent need for global collaboration to tackle shared challenges.
Leaders from around the world, including over 60 heads of state and government, are set to discuss critical topics ranging from geopolitical tensions and the accelerating climate crisis to the rapid technological transformations impacting artificial intelligence and automation in the global economy.
Chinese Vice Premier Ding Xuexiang highlighted the significance of cooperation in promoting economic globalization during his keynote speech. "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 also emphasized the necessity 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 remarked.
Prior to the opening, WEF Founder Klaus Schwab addressed the growing divisions within the world, calling for a renewed spirit of optimism and collaboration. He expressed that the 2025 meeting aims 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.
WEF Managing Director Jeremy Jurgens underscored the importance of strong global governance in the face of rapid technological change. He highlighted contributions from various nations in areas such as economic growth, innovation, and environmental sustainability, underlining the importance of inclusive international collaboration.
As the world navigates complex challenges, the 2025 WEF meeting serves as a critical platform for leaders to find common ground and seize opportunities for positive change on today's most pressing global issues.
Reference(s):
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