The 2025 edition of the World Economic Forum's 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 are gathering to address urgent challenges and explore collaborative solutions.
With over 60 heads of state and government in attendance, the forum is set to discuss 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.
Chinese Vice Premier Ding Xuexiang underscored the importance of cooperation in advancing 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. 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 also emphasized the necessity of 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 said in her address.
Klaus Schwab, Founder of the World Economic Forum, called for renewed collaboration amidst growing global divisions. He urged attendees to embrace a spirit of optimism and cooperation. \"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 remarked.
Jeremy Jurgens, Managing Director of the World Economic Forum, highlighted the crucial role of strong global governance in the face of rapid technological change. He acknowledged China's contributions in areas such as economic growth, innovation, and environmental sustainability, emphasizing the importance of inclusive international collaboration.
The forum aims to serve as a platform for meaningful dialogue, finding common ground, and seizing opportunities to effect positive change on today's most pressing global issues.
Reference(s):
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