Is India Set to Make a Significant Impact at WEF's Annual Meeting in Davos?

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Is India Set to Make a Significant Impact at WEF's Annual Meeting in Davos?

Synopsis

As India gears up for the World Economic Forum in Davos, political and business leaders aim to attract global investments while discussing pressing economic challenges. Will their presence make a difference in the global economic landscape? Discover the significance of this gathering and the potential impacts on India's international relations.

Key Takeaways

  • India's presence at WEF underlines its economic growth.
  • High-profile leaders are expected to attract global investments.
  • Geoeconomic risks are a central theme at this year's Forum.
  • Global leaders are engaging in dialogues to address uncertainties.
  • AI leaders are also participating, reflecting tech's role in global discussions.

New Delhi, Jan 18 (NationPress) India is ready to showcase a remarkable presence at the World Economic Forum's (WEF) annual assembly in Davos, as Union Ministers, Chief Ministers from various states, and more than 100 CEOs from top corporations are heading to the Swiss Alpine venue for this global event from January 19-23.

India has successfully maintained its status as the fastest growing major economy worldwide, and the political and business leaders are gearing up to make a robust case for attracting international investments.

Among the Union ministers attending the economic discussions in Davos are Ashwini Vaishnaw, Minister for Railways, Information & Broadcasting, and Electronics and IT; Shivraj Singh Chouhan, Minister for Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare and Rural Development; Pralhad Joshi, Minister of Renewable Energy, and K Rammohan Naidu, Minister of Civil Aviation.

Chief Ministers aiming to draw investments for their states include Devendra Fadnavis from Maharashtra, N Chandrababu Naidu of Andhra Pradesh, Telangana's A Revanth Reddy, Mohan Yadav from Madhya Pradesh, Hemant Soren of Jharkhand, and Assam's Himanta Biswa Sarma.

This year’s Forum opens with the theme 'Spirit of Dialogue' amidst global economic challenges stemming from the US tariff issues and rising geopolitical uncertainties.

Attention will be focused on US President Donald Trump, who will be represented by the largest US delegation ever seen at WEF, featuring Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, and Special Envoy Steve Witkoff.

Trump has previously astonished European leaders by threatening punitive tariffs on NATO allies, should they not support his plans for Greenland. EU ambassadors are holding urgent discussions just as the WEF commences.

The WEF’s 'Global Risks Report 2026' indicates that geoeconomic confrontation is now the leading near-term risk, surpassing armed conflict and environmental hazards. Approximately 50% of respondents anticipate a turbulent global environment between 2026 and 2028.

The 56th edition of WEF in Davos-Klosters will gather nearly 3,000 leaders from over 130 nations, including 400 top political figures and 850 CEOs. Notable attendees include Mark Carney, Prime Minister of Canada; Emmanuel Macron, President of France; Friedrich Merz, Chancellor of Germany; Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission; He Lifeng, Vice-Premier of China; Javier Milei, President of Argentina; Prabowo Subianto, President of Indonesia; and Pedro Sánchez, Prime Minister of Spain.

Prominent AI leaders such as Jensen Huang, Satya Nadella, Demis Hassabis, and Dario Amodei will also be present.

Point of View

India's participation in the WEF symbolizes its growing influence on the world stage. The presence of high-profile leaders showcases our commitment to fostering international partnerships. It's crucial for India to leverage this opportunity to attract investments and enhance its global standing.
NationPress
18/01/2026

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the theme of this year's WEF?
The theme for this year's WEF is 'Spirit of Dialogue', addressing global economic uncertainties.
Who are some key Indian leaders attending the WEF?
Key Indian leaders include Union Ministers Ashwini Vaishnaw, Shivraj Singh Chouhan, and Chief Ministers like Devendra Fadnavis and N Chandrababu Naidu.
What is the significance of India's presence at the WEF?
India's presence at the WEF highlights its status as the fastest growing major economy and aims to attract foreign investments.
What global challenges are being discussed at the WEF?
Discussions will focus on economic risks, including geoeconomic confrontations and trade tensions.
How many leaders are expected to attend the WEF?
Approximately 3,000 leaders from over 130 countries, including 400 political leaders and 850 CEOs, are expected to attend.
Nation Press