In a major diplomatic achievement for Beijing, the United Nations General Assembly unanimously adopted a China-led resolution on Monday, calling for a “free, open, inclusive, and non-discriminatory” business environment for artificial intelligence development. This resolution, also supported by the United States, underscores the urgency for rich nations to bridge the growing divide with developing countries, ensuring equitable access to AI technologies.
China’s initiative follows the assembly’s adoption of the first AI-focused resolution in March, which was spearheaded by the U.S. and co-sponsored by 123 countries, including China. It highlighted the global commitment to making AI “safe, secure, and trustworthy,” while promoting its benefits across all nations. The adoption of these two non-binding resolutions marks a significant moment of collaboration between the U.S. and China, two countries often seen as rivals on the global stage. Despite their differences, their cooperation on these initial steps shows a mutual commitment to influence the future of AI.
As the world stands on the brink of an AI revolution, this joint effort by the U.S. and China to shape a fair and inclusive AI landscape could set a precedent for future international collaborations, balancing competition with cooperation for the greater good.
The adoption of both AI resolutions by the 193-member General Assembly highlights significant global consensus on this pressing issue. China’s U.N. Ambassador Fu Cong emphasized that these resolutions, although complementary, serve distinct purposes: the U.S. resolution is “more general,” while the newly adopted Chinese measure focuses on “capacity building.” With over 140 sponsors, the Chinese resolution has been hailed as “great and far-reaching,” with Fu expressing appreciation for the U.S.’s positive role in the process.
Fu noted the rapid advancement of AI technology, underscoring that this issue is being addressed at the highest levels, including discussions between U.S. and Chinese leaders. The Chinese resolution urges the international community to ensure a “fair, open, inclusive, and non-discriminatory business environment” from AI’s inception to its application.
