The 2025 World Economic Forum's (WEF) annual meeting commenced on Monday in Davos, Switzerland, drawing nearly 3,000 participants from 130 countries and regions. Under the theme \"Cooperation in the Intelligent Age,\" leaders and experts gathered to address the urgent need for global collaboration in tackling shared challenges.
With over 60 heads of state and government in attendance, the forum aimed to foster meaningful dialogue on critical topics such as geopolitical tensions, the accelerating climate crisis, and the impact of rapid technological transformation—particularly artificial intelligence and automation—on the global economy.
Chinese Vice Premier Ding Xuexiang highlighted the importance of cooperation in promoting economic globalization during his 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 echoed the call 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 emphasized.
Prior to the opening, WEF Founder Klaus Schwab stressed that growing divisions in the world necessitate renewed collaboration. He expressed optimism about 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 underscored the importance of robust global governance amid rapid technological change. He highlighted China's contributions in economic growth, innovation, and environmental sustainability, emphasizing the need for inclusive international collaboration.
Reference(s):
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