Blinken, Israel's Herzog, Argentina's Milei among Davos A-listers

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, Israeli President Isaac Herzog, and Argentine President Javier Milei are set to join other prominent figures, including French President Emmanuel Macron and Chinese Premier Li Qiang, at the World Economic Forum in Davos. The event, running from January 15-19, will be marked by discussions on the ongoing conflict in Gaza and the broader theme of “Rebuilding Trust.”

The forum, hosting over 2,800 participants, will address the complex geopolitical landscape, with attention on the war in Ukraine nearing its second anniversary. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is scheduled to deliver a special address, emphasizing the challenging geopolitical and geoeconomic backdrop.

Borge Brende, President of the World Economic Forum, highlighted the participation of key stakeholders, including Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati, Qatari counterpart Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, and Jordan’s Bisher Khasawneh. The ongoing Gaza conflict raises concerns, prompting discussions on preventing further escalation.

Notable attendees also include UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, NATO head Jens Stoltenberg, and EU chief Ursula von der Leyen. With the war in Gaza persisting and tensions rising in the Middle East, the forum aims to explore ways to avoid further deterioration.

In addition to geopolitical concerns, the Davos meetings will delve into global economic conditions, trade tensions, the rapid advancement of artificial intelligence, and efforts to combat climate change. Over 800 chief executives are expected to engage in discussions, blending live-streamed sessions on global issues with behind-the-scenes negotiations and glamorous social events.