On May 12, the Second AI Capacity Building Workshop kicked off at Tsinghua University in Beijing, hosted by China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs. This dynamic event has gathered experts and officials from nearly 40 countries and international organizations, including ASEAN and the African Union, to explore how AI can drive progress across borders.
China’s vice foreign minister, Ma Zhaoxu, delivered an inspiring address, emphasizing that Chinese President Xi Jinping's Global AI Governance Initiative offers a solution to today’s AI challenges. He urged all participants to embrace innovation, openness, fairness, inclusiveness, and collaborative governance, making AI an international public good that benefits all of humanity.
Ma also underscored China’s proactive role as an advocate, promoter, and pioneer in AI capacity building. With initiatives such as the Universal AI Capacity Building Program and the establishment of the Group of Friends of AI Capacity Building, China is working to support the implementation of the UN General Assembly resolution on international AI cooperation.
In a moving video speech, United Nations Under-Secretary-General and Special Envoy for Digital and Emerging Technologies, Amandeep Singh Gill, highlighted the importance of the China-promoted UN resolution on AI. His remarks resonated with the audience, pointing to the workshop’s significant role in advancing global AI governance.
Chola Milambo, Zambia’s permanent representative to the UN and co-chair of the Group of Friends of AI Capacity Building, also spoke about China’s leadership in supporting AI initiatives, especially in the Global South. Milambo noted that this gathering is key to advancing the Global Digital Compact and the UN resolution, paving the way for deeper international cooperation.
This workshop, following the inaugural event held in Shanghai in September 2024, represents a continued commitment to global dialogue on AI. By encouraging policy exchange, technical support, financial assistance, personnel training, and joint research, the initiative strives to build a framework where technology and governance work hand in hand.
As the digital age evolves at a breakneck pace, events like this remind us that the future of AI is a shared journey. With leaders and experts uniting under a common goal, fresh ideas and innovative collaborations are set to steer the world toward a brighter, more connected tomorrow. Get ready to see AI transform our global landscape – the future is now! 🚀
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
