The upcoming World Economic Forum (WEF) annual meeting, scheduled from January 20 to 24 in Davos, Switzerland, is set to bring together nearly 3,000 leaders from politics, academia, and business, including 60 heads of state and government.
Throughout its history, the WEF has been a catalyst for significant bilateral and multilateral discussions addressing global and local issues critical to the international community. For instance, in 1992, Nelson Mandela and F.W. de Klerk met outside South Africa for the first time at Davos, symbolizing a pivotal moment in the fight against apartheid. In 1998, during the ongoing financial crisis, the idea of creating a regular dialogue platform between developed and developing nations emerged at the forum, laying the groundwork for the Group of 20.
The increasing gap between aspirations and anxieties was evident last year, and the agenda for Davos 2025 is anticipated to be even more critical. Geopolitical and economic uncertainty, trade tensions, cultural polarization, and climate challenges are becoming increasingly complex and interconnected. Meanwhile, new technological breakthroughs in quantum computing, biotechnology, and artificial intelligence are creating unique opportunities to enhance productivity, improve living standards, and reduce poverty and inequality.
Davos 2025 will center on the theme \"Collaborating for the Intelligent Age,\" highlighting how converging technologies are rapidly transforming our world with the potential to both uplift and divide humanity. Under this overarching theme, the forum will focus on five priorities: \"Rethinking Growth,\" \"Industries in the Intelligent Age,\" \"Investing in People,\" \"Safeguarding the Planet,\" and \"Rebuilding Trust.\"
As the world navigates through these unprecedented times, the WEF aims to foster collaboration and dialogue among global leaders to address the pressing challenges and harness the opportunities presented by technological advancements. The emphasis on rebuilding trust and investing in people underscores the need for inclusive growth and sustainable development in the intelligent age.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
