Davos 2024: WEF President emphasizes global solidarity

The 54th annual meeting of the World Economic Forum (WEF) in Davos (Switzerland) ended on January 19, concluding 5 days of heated discussions on many topics of current interest such as artificial intelligence (AI) technology and climate change.

In his closing speech, WEF President Borge Brende called for rebuilding trust in an increasingly fractured and polarized world , saying this year's conference is seen as an important platform to promote dialogue, cooperation and action-oriented partnerships.

The 54th annual meeting of the World Economic Forum (WEF) in Davos (Switzerland) ended on January 19. Photo: REUTERS

WEF President Borge Brende emphasized the forum's role in igniting a "spirit of solidarity" globally, while affirming that cooperation can bring about positive and meaningful results.

According to Mr. Brende, the world is facing difficult and complex challenges, including global warming, fragile economic growth and security instability in many places. He stressed that trust has declined in recent years and that is why this conference calls for rebuilding it, considering it an important foundation for global cooperation to deal with current challenges.

“In challenging and unpredictable times, cooperation is the only sure way to shape a world that is stable, fair and resilient to future changes,” he affirmed.

Professor Klaus Schwab, founder and Executive Chairman of WEF, stated: "We must rebuild trust - trust in our future, trust in our ability to overcome challenges, and most importantly, trust in each other." He also emphasized that this trust must be demonstrated in real action.

The rapid development of artificial intelligence (AI) was a topic of much discussion at this year's WEF. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres mentioned the risks of AI, warning of unpredictable dangers if this technology is not controlled. Accordingly, he called on governments to urgently cooperate with technology companies on a risk management framework for AI development as well as monitoring and minimizing future harm.

Previously, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) published an assessment stating that the development of AI technology could affect nearly 40% of jobs worldwide, changing the global economy and potentially deepening inequality between countries and workers within countries.

With the theme "Rebuilding Trust", this 5-day conference focuses on 4 main priorities, including strengthening cooperation in an increasingly fragmented world, promoting economic growth and jobs in the new era, measures to make AI a driving force for economic growth as well as social development, and establishing long-term strategies on climate change and energy security.

This year's WEF Annual Meeting was attended by nearly 3,000 political, economic and social leaders from more than 120 countries. The leaders participated in more than 450 sessions and discussions to promote dialogue across many fields.

According to VNA

Source: https://www.sggp.org.vn/hoi-nghi-davos-2024-chu-tich-wef-nhan-manh-tinh-than-doan-ket-toan-cau-post723584.html