This is the first WEF Summit to be attended by President Motlanthe since he took office in September 2008.
The 2009 World Economic Forum Annual Meeting, which begins on Wednesday and ends on Sunday, is organised under the theme: “Shaping the Post-Crisis World”.
According to the Department of Foreign Affairs, the objective of the forum is to develop a holistic and systematic approach to improve the state of the world in a manner that integrates all stakeholders of global society.
“This session will provide a unique opportunity for leaders from industry, government and civil society to shape this transformation at an early stage for the benefit of all stakeholders,” the department said.
Some of the issues on the agenda include promoting stability in the financial system and reviving global economic growth.
It will also focus on ensuring effective global, regional and national governance for the long term.
“The forum will also address the challenges of sustainability and development as well as shaping the values and leadership principles for a post-crisis world,” the department said.
Catalysing the next wave of growth through innovation, science and technology and understanding the implications on industry business model will also be on the agenda.
The annual meeting promises to be one of the most important events in the World Economic Forum's history.
“More than 40 Heads of State and government have already confirmed their participation with over 2,500 participants from the business, political and cultural communities expected to address the annual event.”
This mass participation, the department said, reflects the growing need for an interdisciplinary and systematic view of the major economic, political, societal and technological changes that lie ahead in 2009.
President Motlanthe's delegation will include Finance Minister Trevor Manuel, Trade and Industry Minister Mandisi Mpahlwa as well as Environmental Affairs and Tourism Minister Marthinus van Schalkwyk and other senior government officials.
President Motlanthe is expected to hold, on the margins of the forum, a series of bilateral meetings with other participating Heads of State and Government, as well as representatives from private corporations.
Article published courtesy of BuaNews
