The 2025 Annual Meeting of the World Economic Forum (WEF) 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, business executives, and experts have convened to address the urgent need for international collaboration to tackle shared challenges.
With over 60 heads of state and government in attendance, the forum aims to foster meaningful dialogue on critical issues ranging from geopolitical tensions and the accelerating climate crisis to the impacts of rapid technological transformation, including artificial intelligence and automation, on the global economy.
Chinese Vice Premier Ding Xuexiang highlighted the significance of cooperation in promoting economic globalization during his speech. He stated, \"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.\"
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen echoed the call for global cooperation, emphasizing, \"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.\"
Prior to the opening, WEF Founder Klaus Schwab underscored the necessity of renewed collaboration amidst growing global divisions. 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.
Jeremy Jurgens, Managing Director of the WEF, addressed the importance of strong global governance in the face of rapid technological change. Highlighting contributions from various nations, including the Chinese mainland, in economic growth, innovation, and environmental sustainability, he underlined the crucial role of inclusive international collaboration.
The WEF 2025 meeting serves as a pivotal platform for leaders to find common ground and seize opportunities for positive change on today's most pressing global issues. As the world navigates the complexities of the Intelligent Age, the emphasis on cooperation signifies a collective commitment to a more connected and resilient global community.
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