Global Cooperation at the Forefront of 2025 World Economic Forum in Davos
The 2025 edition of the annual World Economic Forum (WEF) opened in Davos, Switzerland, on Monday, bringing together nearly 3,000 participants from 130 countries and regions. The gathering focuses on the urgent need for global collaboration to tackle shared challenges in an increasingly interconnected world.
Under the theme \"Cooperation in the Intelligent Age,\" the event is set to discuss critical topics ranging from geopolitical tensions and the accelerating climate crisis to rapid technological transformations, particularly the impact of artificial intelligence and automation on the global economy.
Over 60 heads of state and government, alongside political leaders, business executives, and experts, are convening to drive meaningful dialogue, find common ground, and seize opportunities for positive change on today's most pressing global issues.
Emphasis on Economic Globalization
Chinese Vice Premier Ding Xuexiang emphasized the significance of cooperation in promoting 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 said.
Ding's remarks highlight China's commitment to playing a constructive role in fostering global economic integration.
Calls for Avoiding a \"Race to the Bottom\"
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen also stressed 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 in her speech.
Her comments reflect a shared concern about the risks of isolationism and the importance of maintaining strong international economic ties.
A Spirit of Optimism and Collaboration
Prior to the opening, WEF Founder Klaus Schwab called for renewed cooperation amid growing global divisions. He emphasized the importance of optimism and collaboration in shaping 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 addressed the importance of strong global governance in the face of rapid technological change. He highlighted China's contributions in economic growth, innovation, and environmental sustainability, underlining the need for inclusive international collaboration.
Looking Ahead
The discussions at WEF 2025 are expected to set the tone for global cooperation in the years ahead, with leaders aiming to bridge divides and work together to address challenges such as climate change, technological disruption, and economic inequality.
As the intelligent age unfolds, the emphasis on cooperation reflects a recognition that shared challenges require collective solutions, and that global collaboration is essential for building a sustainable and prosperous future for all.
Reference(s):
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