Davos, Switzerland – The snow-capped peaks of Davos once again provided the backdrop for the annual World Economic Forum (WEF) meeting, which commenced on Monday with a resounding call for global cooperation. Nearly 3,000 participants from 130 countries and regions have gathered in this Swiss alpine town to address the urgent need for collaboration in tackling shared global challenges.
Under the theme \"Cooperation in the Intelligent Age,\" the 2025 WEF meeting aims to navigate the complexities of an increasingly interconnected world. Discussions are set to focus on critical issues such as escalating geopolitical tensions, the accelerating climate crisis, and the profound impact of rapid technological transformation—particularly artificial intelligence and automation—on the global economy.
Over 60 heads of state and government leaders, alongside political figures, business executives, and experts, are converging to foster meaningful dialogue. Their goal: to find common ground and seize opportunities for positive change on today's most pressing global issues.
In a keynote speech, Chinese Vice Premier Ding Xuexiang emphasized the pivotal role of cooperation 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.\"
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen echoed this sentiment, highlighting the necessity of unity in the global community. \"We will need to work together to avoid a global race to the bottom,\" she said. \"Because it is in no one's interest to break the bonds in the global economy.\"
Before the official opening, WEF Founder Klaus Schwab called for renewed cooperation in the face of growing divisions worldwide. \"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. He emphasized that the meeting aims to shape a future that embraces sustainability and inclusivity amid the emerging intelligent era.
Jeremy Jurgens, Managing Director of WEF, underscored the importance of robust global governance in the midst of rapid technological change. He specifically highlighted China's contributions in areas such as economic growth, innovation, and environmental sustainability, underlining the significance of inclusive international collaboration.
As discussions unfold over the coming days, participants hope to bridge divides and cultivate partnerships that will address global challenges head-on. The spirit of Davos, rooted in dialogue and cooperation, seeks to inspire actions that will propel the world toward a more united and prosperous future.
Reference(s):
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