Globalism, protectionism debate set to dominate WEF agenda

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Europe

By CGTN’s Jack Barton

On Tuesday, the world will be listening closely to what Chinese President Xi Jinping has to say at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland.

At a time when conservative political sentiment is rising in much of the West, China is expected to keep its commitment to open markets and tackling economic seclusion.

The center of Davos has now been closed off for the 47th World Economic Forum, expected to attract a record 3,000 delegates.

The World Economic Forum (WEF) annual meeting, which will take off on January 17, will bring together business leaders and international political leaders to discuss “Responsive and Responsible Leadership” in Davos, Switzerland. /CFP Photo

The theme this year is responsive and responsible leadership, a timely topic with Donald Trump about to become the president of the United States.

Trump’s policies as well as Britain’s decision to leave the EU are already generating much debate and that is expected to continue throughout the forum, the first to be attended by a Chinese president. Xi Jinping will deliver a keynote speech in which he is expected to address the incoming US president’s protectionist policies including threats of trade barriers, which Beijing has said will be in the interest of no one and could lead to the isolation of the United States.

The World Economic Forum (WEF) annual meeting, which will take off on January 17th, will bring together business leaders and international political leaders to discuss “Responsive and Responsible Leadership” in Davos, Switzerland. /CFP Photo‍

Rising global inequality is another pressing issue feeding into the rise of populist political parties and a backlash against globalization.

Xi is being accompanied by the largest Chinese delegation ever to the forum including corporate big hitters like Alibaba founder Jack Ma.

The size of the delegation is also expected to lead to unprecedented participation by Chinese speakers at many of the forums events.

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