Artificial Intelligence : UN Adopts Resolution On Building Capacity

The 78th session of the United Nations General Assembly on Monday July 1, 2024 unanimously adopted a resolution proposed by China and co-sponsored by over 140 countries, on strengthening international cooperation in the capacity building of Artificial Intelligence, AI. The resolution on "Enhancing International Cooperation on Capacity-building of Artificial Intelligence" emphasizes that the development of AI should adhere to "the principles of being human-centered," promoting beneficial intelligence, and benefiting humanity, Xinhua news agency reported.

In Order To Help Developing Countries 
The resolution encourages international cooperation and practical actions to help countries, especially developing countries, strengthen their AI capacity building, enhance their representation and voice in global AI governance, advocate for "an open, fair, and non-discriminatory business environment," and support the United Nations in playing a central role in international cooperation.

How AI Impacts Human Civilisation
Introducing the resolution, China's Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Fu Cong, argued that the rapid development of global AI technology is having a profound impact on the economic and social development of countries and the progress of human civilization. However, most countries, especially developing ones, have yet to truly access, use, and benefit from AI, as the global digital divide continues to widen, he noted.
The resolution aims to achieve inclusive, beneficial, and sustainable development of artificial intelligence, thereby contributing to the realization of the United Nations' 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

Of AI, Ethics, Governance 
"Past global discussions may have focused on the issues of AI safety, ethics and governance. However, for many low- and middle-income countries, they lack even the most basic AI infrastructure, let alone the capability for AI innovation and application," China Global Television Network, CGTN, cited Zeng Yi, a member of the United Nations AI Advisory Body and professor at the Institute of Automation of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, as saying. 

Fostering Sustainable Development 
"The original purpose of AI technology was to empower sustainable development and bridge the digital divide. However, this divide has now widened, making governance issues critically important. Capacity building is a crucial core element aimed at helping these low- and middle-income countries bridge this digital divide and ensuring that the benefits of AI reach them," Zeng s...