The World Economic Forum's (WEF) Annual Meeting 2025 commenced in Davos, Switzerland on Monday, drawing nearly 3,000 participants from 130 countries and regions. Under the theme \"Cooperation in the Intelligent Age\", global leaders, business executives, and experts are gathering to address urgent challenges and foster collaboration in an increasingly interconnected world.
As geopolitical tensions rise and the climate crisis accelerates, the forum aims to facilitate meaningful dialogue on critical issues such as rapid technological transformation, artificial intelligence, and automation's impact on the global economy. Over 60 heads of state and government are in attendance, highlighting the event's significance in shaping global policies and strategies.
Chinese Vice Premier Ding Xuexiang emphasized the importance of cooperation in promoting economic globalization during his address. \"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,\" he stated, acknowledging the challenges ahead in advancing economic globalization.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen also underscored the need for global cooperation to prevent economic fragmentation. \"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 remarked.
Prior to the opening, WEF Founder Klaus Schwab called for renewed cooperation amidst growing global divisions, advocating for a 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, addressed the importance of strong global governance in the face of rapid technological change. He highlighted contributions from various nations, including China's role in economic growth, innovation, and environmental sustainability, underlining the significance of inclusive international collaboration.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
