Davos Forum Officially Opens... Ukrainian President Zelensky Takes the Podium

The World Economic Forum (WEF, Davos Forum), where opinion leaders from around the world gather to discuss common global issues, officially began its schedule on the 16th (local time).

The core theme of this event is the security crisis. Among them, ways to end the war in Ukraine, which has been ongoing for two years, are expected to be a significant agenda item again this year, following last year.

In the morning at the Davos International Conference Center, Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, is expected to emphasize the Western bloc's continued support for Ukraine in her special address. In the afternoon, Volodymyr Zelensky, President of Ukraine and a party to the conflict, will deliver a speech in person.

Volodymyr Zelensky, President of Ukraine [Photo by Yonhap News]

He is likely to appeal to the international community for continued attention and support and reiterate his proposal to hold a so-called 'World Peace Conference' where world leaders can come together to devise a plan to end the war in Ukraine. The day before, President Zelensky proposed holding the World Peace Conference in neutral Switzerland during a summit with Viola Amherd, President of Switzerland. The Swiss side also responded positively to the proposal, provided that the conference includes as many countries as possible.

Meanwhile, the Israel-Palestine war, ongoing since last October, is also one of the major issues to be addressed at this year's Davos Forum. Jens Stoltenberg, Secretary General of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), Annalena Baerbock, German Foreign Minister, Christopher Coons, U.S. Senator, and Faisal bin Farhan, Saudi Foreign Minister, will examine the complex security crisis under the theme of 'Security in an Unstable World.'

Following this, Jake Sullivan, U.S. National Security Advisor, will deliver a special address. He is expected to focus on conveying the U.S. government's stance on security issues such as the Ukraine war and Middle East conflicts. A speech by Bisher Al-Khasawneh, Prime Minister of Jordan, a country neighboring Palestine, is also scheduled.

Additionally, in the morning, a special speech by Li Qiang, Premier of China, is scheduled. He is expected to mention China's economic outlook for this year and emphasize strengthening cooperation with the international community.