Sustainable economic development in era of rapidly advancing technology to feature prominently at WEF summit
Meeting under the theme 'Collaboration in the intelligent age', world leaders are expected to address key global and regional challenges which include stimulating growth in a time of high debt.
A man takes a picture with his mobile of a sign of the World Economic Forum (WEF) during the WEF annual meeting in Davos on 20 January 2025. Picture: Fabrice COFFRINI/AFP
CAPE TOWN - Sustainable economic development in an era of rapidly advancing technology will feature prominently on the agenda at the 55th World Economic Forum (WEF) summit in Davos, Switzerland starting on Monday.
President Cyril Ramaphosa says he will use the platform to advance South Africa's G20 presidency and to encourage investment in the country.
Ramaphosa is among 60 world leaders who are attending the 55th annual summit.
He's expected to deliver a special address to the forum, in which he will present the economic priorities of the Government of National Unity (GNU), as well as the G20 presidency.
Meeting under the theme "Collaboration in the intelligent age", world leaders are expected to address key global and regional challenges which include stimulating growth in a time of high debt.
The Presidency says South Africa’s innovation and technology is crucial for driving economic development and addressing societal challenges.
It says government wants to leverage technical advancements to promote inclusive growth and enhance its competitiveness.
The Presidency says this would be achieved by modernising industries, advancing skills development and improving the public service.
President Ramaphosa is leading a Cabinet delegation of eight ministers, which include trade, electricity, science and technology, communications, agriculture, health, fisheries and international relations.
Ramaphosa says he's committed to leveraging the G20 platform to highlight the significance of fostering economic growth, while ensuring social inclusion and environmental stewardship.
He says the annual meeting is also a valuable opportunity to demonstrate South Africa's potential as a hub for global investments and its ongoing structural reforms of key sectors such as energy and logistics.