Isaac Herzog and Sheikh Al Thani discuss Middle East at WEF

As the world grapples with ongoing conflicts, economic instability, and rapid technological advancements, heads of state and key global figures have gathered in Davos, Switzerland, for the World Economic Forum's (WEF) Annual Meeting 2025.

Held from 20-25 January 2025, the summit is themed “Collaboration for the Intelligent Age”, drawing close to 3,000 attendees from over 130 countries, including 50 heads of state and government, alongside top business leaders and civil society experts.

The event comes at a time of significant international tension, with new leadership transitions and regional conflicts dominating the global landscape. Against this backdrop, Davos aims to foster dialogue and create actionable solutions to shared challenges, ranging from geopolitical tensions to the impacts of AI and digital transformation.

Prominent global leaders have delivered remarks and participated in discussions, providing insights into pressing global issues:

In a conversation with CNN host Fareed Zakaria, Israeli President Isaac Herzog reflected on the ongoing developments in the Middle East and Gaza, stating that the region is undergoing “historical change.” Herzog expressed optimism about the recently brokered Gaza ceasefire, calling it the “key to opening the door” for further hostage releases and a potential path to stability.

Qatar’s Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, discussed Middle Eastern politics in a session with WEF President Børge Brende. T

Topics included political shifts in Lebanon, the formation of a new government in Syria, and the Gaza ceasefire agreement. Sheikh Mohammed emphasized Qatar’s role in mediating regional conflicts and its ongoing commitment to fostering stability and dialogue in the region.

The summit features a diverse lineup of leaders, including U.S. President Donald Trump, China’s Vice-Premier Ding Xuexiang, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, and Argentine President Javier Milei. These leaders are participating in public dialogues to address issues such as economic inequality, technological disruption, and geopolitical conflict.

Davos 2025 serves as a unique platform for public and private sector collaboration, offering the opportunity to devise durable solutions to the most pressing challenges of the day.

With its emphasis on collaboration and innovation, the World Economic Forum’s Annual Meeting is poised to play a critical role in shaping a more resilient, inclusive, and sustainable global future. 

As the summit progresses, the world looks to Davos for tangible outcomes that address the complex challenges facing the international community.