The 2025 World Economic Forum (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,\" global leaders converged to address the urgent need for collaboration in tackling shared challenges.
With discussions spanning geopolitical tensions, the accelerating climate crisis, and the impact of artificial intelligence and automation on the global economy, the forum seeks to find common ground on critical global issues.
Over 60 heads of state and government, alongside political leaders, business executives, and experts, are participating in dialogues aimed at fostering meaningful cooperation and seizing opportunities for positive change.
Speaking at the forum, Chinese Vice Premier Ding Xuexiang highlighted the importance of cooperation in advancing economic globalization. \"Through cooperation to promote economic globalization, we will usher in a more vibrant, advanced, and sustainable new stage,\" he 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 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 stated.
WEF Founder Klaus Schwab emphasized that growing divisions in the world require renewed cooperation. He called for a spirit of optimism and collaboration, aiming 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.
Jeremy Jurgens, Managing Director of the WEF, addressed the importance of strong global governance amid rapid technological change. He highlighted China's contributions in economic growth, innovation, and environmental sustainability, underscoring the significance of inclusive international collaboration.
As the world navigates complex challenges, the WEF's 2025 meeting serves as a pivotal platform for leaders to engage in dialogue and forge pathways toward a cooperative global future.
