DAVOS, Switzerland, 21 January. - (ANA) - The World Economic Forum Annual Meeting 2026 is being held in Davos under the theme of A Spirit of Dialogue.

 

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen outlined Europe's response to geopolitical strain, citing new trade deals, global openness and the need to adapt to a shifting economic and security order.

 

French President Emmanuel Macron called for renewed global cooperation, defending multilateralism while urging Europe to boost competitiveness, invest boldly and assert economic and strategic sovereignty.

 

He Lifeng, Vice-Premier of the People's Republic of China, urged global cooperation, rejected trade wars and outlined China's push to boost domestic demand while opening markets wider, especially in services.

 

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney outlined an approach that rejects retreat from cooperation, and calls for flexible, issue-by-issue coalitions with partners willing to act together on shared principles and goals.

 

Guy Parmelin, President of the Swiss Confederation, highlighted the importance of free trade, economic resilience and AI's growing impact, urging leaders to move forward with courage, adaptability and long-term commitment.

 

Microsoft Chairman and CEO Satya Nadella discussed how AI is boosting productivity and reshaping work, stressing outcome-driven innovation and public-private cooperation to support responsible, sustainable adoption.

 

The 56th Annual Meeting of the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, comes at a pivotal moment for global cooperation.

 

Close to 3,000 participants from 130 countries are joining the meeting to explore the most pressing global challenges and advance solutions. Participants include around 65 heads of state and government and nearly 850 of the world’s top CEOs and chairpersons.   - (ANA) -

 

AB/ANA/21 January 2026 - - -