In his remarks, Korosi emphasized the transformative potential of Digital Earth technologies. "Science shapes our understanding of reality, and Digital Earth offers a new approach to achieving sustainability," he said, calling for stronger international cooperation.

Annoni highlighted China's role in advancing Digital Earth research, citing breakthroughs such as AI-powered satellites and digital twins. However, he noted that significant gaps in sustainable development remain and called for wider adoption of open science principles.

The ISDE conferred its highest honor, the ISDE Fellow title, on Annoni and Li Deren, an academician with the Chinese Academy of Sciences, for their contributions to geospatial sciences and Digital Earth development. Additional awards recognized global pioneers in the field.