On Thursday, at the United Nations Security Council briefing, Fu Cong, China’s permanent representative, addressed the critical issue of artificial intelligence (AI) governance, emphasizing the need for inclusivity and equal access to AI technologies globally. He stated, ‘AI technology is not a pie to be divided among a small group of people.’ This sentiment underscores China’s position that the governance of AI should not be dictated by a limited number of countries.
Fu articulated China’s firm opposition to discriminatory barriers rooted in ideological differences, arguing that such barriers obstruct the rights of all nations, particularly developing countries, to utilize emerging technologies equitably. ‘Only by learning from each other and implementing joint governance can we embark on the right path,’ he said, highlighting the importance of cooperation.
He noted that the divide in AI capabilities between developed and developing countries continues to widen. Fu advocated for enhancing the representation and voice of developing nations in AI governance. He mentioned the Global Digital Compact, a UN-proposed framework aimed at facilitating responsible digital technology use and ensuring the benefits of AI reach all countries.
Stressing the need for adherence to international norms and the UN Charter, Fu called for relevant laws and educational initiatives to prepare professionals in the field. He warned, ‘Prevention on both the human and technological fronts must go hand in hand to prevent systemic risks like hacker attacks and data fraud.’
China has initiated several domestic and international measures for AI governance, including a development plan released in 2017 focusing on the dual nature of AI. Recent propositions include a Global AI Governance Initiative and a resolution supporting international cooperation in AI capacity-building adopted by the UN General Assembly.
During the same meeting, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken acknowledged the necessity of closing the digital divide while promoting accessibility of AI benefits worldwide. He echoed a resolution previously adopted with China’s leadership, aimed at ensuring global access to AI technologies.
Furthermore, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres raised concerns regarding the rapid advancements in AI technology outpacing governance capabilities, emphasizing the necessity for human oversight in decision-making processes. ‘The fate of humanity must never be left to the black box of an algorithm,’ he remarked, calling for strict adherence to international humanitarian laws in the military use of AI.
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