America News Agency

World Economic Forum (WEF) President Borge Brende said in a recent interview with Xinhua News Agency in Geneva, Switzerland, that China continues to be the country making the greatest contribution to global economic growth.

Brende noted that while China continues its efforts in areas where it has traditionally been strong, it is also actively engaged in newly emerging technology sectors, adding that the World Economic Forum expects China’s economic growth rate this year to exceed 5 percent.

Emphasizing China’s rapid growth in advanced technology fields, Brende said the country is increasing its investments in R&D and innovation in new technology areas, stating: “These new technologies are expected to deliver tremendous productivity gains and growth opportunities in the coming years.”

Brende pointed out that despite a complex geopolitical environment and the misuse of customs tariffs by some countries, the global economy is still showing a certain degree of resilience. He added that trade, the engine of growth, continues to be important today, and that new technologies such as artificial intelligence will support global economic growth by stimulating significant investments.

Brende said that if geopolitical tensions can be prevented, global economic growth is expected to remain above 3 percent in 2026.

Commending China’s role in supporting multilateralism, Brende underlined the need for multilateral mechanisms such as the United Nations (UN) to address global risks including pandemics and cybercrime.

The WEF Annual Meeting 2026 will be held in Davos, Switzerland, from January 19 to 23. Around 3,000 representatives from more than 130 countries and regions worldwide will discuss issues such as strengthening cooperation, sustaining new growth momentum, and investing in human capital.