Davos 2025: Team Donald Trump dominates 55th annual WEF meet; all eyes on 47th POTUS oath today

Davos, the highest town in Europe, has once again become the centre of global attention as the World Economic Forum’s (WEF) Annual Meeting 2025 begins today, Monday (January 20, 2025) in the snow-clad Swiss Alps. The five-day event is set to witness over 3,000 leaders from more than 130 countries engaging in discussions to address critical global challenges, including economic growth, technological transformation, and climate action.

Adding to the global buzz, US President-elect Donald Trump will be inaugurated for another term at 12 pm Eastern Time on the west front of the US Capitol. The ceremony, coinciding with the opening day of the WEF, has sparked discussions among global leaders and experts gathered in Davos. A special panel featuring Stanford historian Niall Ferguson and journalists Mina Al-Oraibi, Gerard Baker, Zanny Minton Beddoes, and Sam Jacobs will explore the implications of Trump’s new administration on international cooperation and economic policies.

India’s largest delegation paves its way

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With Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw leading the contingent, India is poised to make a strong impression at Davos with its largest-ever delegation, which includes five union ministers, three state chief ministers, nearly 100 CEOs, and representatives from civil society and the arts.

“The Prime Minister of India has focused on inclusive development that brings transformative changes in the lives of those at the bottom of the pyramid. From financial inclusion through bank accounts to providing essential services like toilets, gas connections, tap water, and improving infrastructure in both rural and urban areas, this is something which the world wants to understand," said Vaishnaw.

Alongside him, ministers CR Patil, Chirag Paswan, Jayant Chaudhary, and K Ram Mohan Naidu are poised to discuss inclusive growth and investment in key sectors.

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis is focusing on cementing Maharashtra’s position as a trillion-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 investments, branding the region as a premier destination. Telangana CM A. Revanth Reddy is also part of this robust Indian delegation.

Global giants gather to tackle geopolitical and economic challenges

The WEF Annual Meeting 2025 has attracted over 350 government leaders, including 60 heads of state and government, alongside 1,600 business leaders and experts. Discussions will revolve around revitalising global economies, fostering inclusive growth, and addressing climate challenges amidst geopolitical tensions.

President and CEO of WEF, Børge Brende, underlined the importance of innovative and cooperative approaches to tackle the world's pressing issues. The event will also feature the Crystal Awards ceremony, recognising cultural leaders who have made exceptional contributions toward inclusivity and societal change.