Expert calls for international cooperation to steer AI development

This photo taken on July 6, 2023 shows a robot from Tesla during the World Artificial Intelligence Conference (WAIC) 2023 in Shanghai, east China. [Photo/Xinhua]

Despite the vast potential artificial intelligence may offer humanity, AI technologies also pose unpredictable risks and complex challenges.

Zhu Rongsheng, an expert at the Center for International Security and Strategy at Tsinghua University, shared his concerns and hopes for the future of AI technologies with China.org.cn.

"The world today is in a period of profound turmoil and transformation, marked by significant development and change. Addressing the longstanding and emerging problems of global development requires cooperative political wisdom and a vision for a global community of shared future," Zhu said.

He noted that technological advancements and research outcomes in AI should benefit all of humanity and be universally accessible. "Different countries will inevitably have divergent approaches to technological development and achieving mutual benefits. However, international matters should be managed through consultation and dialogue by all stakeholders, and the future and fate of the world should be jointly upheld by everyone," Zhu stated to China.org.cn.

According to Zhu, the development and governance of AI currently exhibit the short-term characteristic of "the strong go first and set the law." This situation may lead some developing countries with weak technological foundations into the dilemma of "following the strong."

Therefore, the Global AI Governance Initiative, launched by China during the third Belt and Road Forum for International Cooperation held in Beijing in October, holds significant importance, according to Zhu. He added that it enables developing countries to participate in global AI governance and share its outcomes.

"An important aspect of current AI development and governance is to enhance international cooperation and support for developing countries. This can be achieved through infrastructure, talent training, joint research and development, and market exchanges," Zhu emphasized.

AI governance is a common challenge for all humanity. Countries worldwide should collectively participate in this endeavor, working towards a common goal of technological advancement for the benefit of everyone, Zhu added.