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 to address the urgent need for global collaboration in tackling shared challenges.
With the theme \\"Cooperation in the Intelligent Age,\\" the gathering aims to navigate critical issues ranging from geopolitical tensions and the accelerating climate crisis to rapid technological transformations, including 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, have convened in Davos to drive meaningful dialogue, find common ground, and seize opportunities for positive change on today's most pressing global issues.
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,\\" Ding said. \\"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 also highlighted the need for global cooperation.
\\"We will need to work together to avoid a global race to the bottom,\\" she stated. \\"Because it is in no one's interest to break the bonds in the global economy.\\"
Prior to the opening, WEF Founder Klaus Schwab addressed the growing divisions within the world, calling for a renewed spirit of optimism and collaboration.
\\"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, underscored the importance of strong global governance in the face of rapid technological change. He highlighted China's contributions in areas such as economic growth, innovation, and environmental sustainability, underlining the importance of inclusive international collaboration.
\\"China's role in driving innovation and sustainable development is pivotal,\\" Jurgens noted. \\"Inclusive international collaboration is essential as we navigate the challenges and opportunities of the Intelligent Age.\\"
The WEF 2025 meeting in Davos represents a critical moment for global leaders to unite and chart a course toward a more cooperative and sustainable future, emphasizing that collaboration is key in addressing the complex issues facing the world today.
Reference(s):
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