Davos 2025: Donald Trump’s team hosts WEF’s 55th annual meeting; all eyes on the 47th POTUS swearing in today
Davos, Europe’s highest city, is once again the center of global attention as the World Economic Forum (WEF) 2025 Annual Meeting begins today, Monday (January 20, 2025) in the snow-capped Swiss Alps. The five-day event is scheduled to witness more than 3,000 leaders from more than 130 countries who will discuss to address the world’s most pressing challenges, including economic growth, technological change, and climate action.
Adding to the global buzz, US President-elect Donald Trump will be inaugurated for another term at 12pm Eastern Time west of the US Capitol. This event, which coincides with the opening day of the WEF, sparked discussions between world leaders and experts gathered in Davos. A special panel consisting of Stanford historian Niall Ferguson and journalists Mina Al-Oraibi, Gerard Baker, Zanny Minton Beddoes, and Sam Jacobs will examine the effects of the Trump administration on international cooperation and economic policies.
India’s biggest team makes its way
With Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw leading the group, India is poised to make a strong impression at Davos with its largest ever delegation, comprising five union ministers, three chief ministers, nearly 100 CEOs, and representatives of civil and arts organizations.
“The Prime Minister of India is focused on inclusive development that brings about changes in the lives of those at the bottom of the tower. From financial inclusion through bank accounts to providing essential needs such as toilets, gas connection, running water, and improving infrastructure in rural and urban areas, this is something the world wants to understand,” said Vaishnaw.
Alongside him, ministers CR Patil, Chirag Paswan, Jayant Chaudhary, and K Ram Mohan Naidu are ready to discuss inclusive growth and investment in key sectors.
Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis is focused on strengthening Maharashtra’s position as a multi-billion dollar economy, with plans to sign MoUs in sectors such as semiconductors, electric vehicles, pharmaceuticals and textiles. Andhra Pradesh CM N Chandrababu Naidu aims to highlight the state’s infrastructure and business-friendly environment to attract global investment, and to brand the state as a leading destination. Telangana CM A. Revanth Reddy is also a part of this powerful Indian team.
Global giants are coming together to face global and economic challenges
The 2025 WEF Annual Meeting attracted more than 350 government leaders, including 60 heads of state and government, as well as 1,600 business leaders and experts. Discussions will revolve around revitalizing the global economy, promoting inclusive growth, and addressing climate challenges amid political tensions.
The President and CEO of the WEF, Børge Brende, emphasized the importance of innovative and collaborative approaches to tackling the world’s pressing problems. The event will also include the Crystal Awards ceremony, recognizing cultural leaders who have made an extraordinary contribution to bringing everyone together and transforming society.
