The World Economic Forum (WEF) annual meeting, scheduled to be held from January 20 to 24 in Davos, Switzerland, is expected to bring together close to 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, exploring and addressing global and local issues of critical importance to the international community.
Notable milestones include the historic meeting in 1992 between Nelson Mandela and F.W. de Klerk at Davos—their first meeting outside South Africa—which symbolized a turning point in the global fight against apartheid. In 1998, amid the ongoing financial crisis, Davos served as the birthplace of the idea for a regular dialogue platform between developed and developing nations, ultimately laying the groundwork for the Group of 20 (G20).
As we approach Davos 2025, the stakes are higher than ever. The increasing gap between aspirations and anxieties was evident last year, and the upcoming agenda is anticipated to be even more critical. Geopolitical and economic uncertainties, 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 for humanity. These advancements have the potential to improve productivity, raise living standards, and reduce poverty and inequality across the globe.
Davos 2025 will center on \"Collaborating for the Intelligent Age.\" This theme highlights how converging technologies are rapidly transforming our world, with the potential to both uplift and divide humanity. Under this overarching theme, the forum will orient around five key priorities:
- Rethinking Growth
- Industries in the Intelligent Age
- Investing in People
- Safeguarding the Planet
- Rebuilding Trust
These priorities underscore the need for global collaboration to harness the benefits of technological advancements while addressing the challenges they present. The upcoming WEF meeting promises to be a pivotal moment for leaders worldwide to come together and pave the way for a more inclusive and sustainable future.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
