UK delegation visits World Internet Conference

On May 20, a delegation headed by Chris Jones, director of the International Science and Technology Department at the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, visited the World Internet Conference (WIC) in Beijing. 

The two sides discussed issues concerning the development and governance of artificial intelligence (AI), and called for efforts to advance global cooperation in the field.

Liang Hao, executive deputy secretary-general of the WIC, briefed the general overview of the WIC and WIC Specialized Committee on AI. He emphasized that the organization is firmly committed to building a global platform for exchanges and cooperation in the field of AI. 

By hosting conferences and forums, releasing research reports, and offering training programs, the WIC aims to promote extensive consultation, joint contribution, shared benefits and governance in AI, Liang said. 

Liang also invited members of the UK government, businesses, and institutions to take part in the WIC Wuzhen Summit, engage in exchanges and cooperation with international partners, and work together to build a community with a shared future in cyberspace.

Jones introduced the UK's strategy and initiatives in the development and governance of AI, and lauded the WIC’s efforts in advancing international cooperation on AI. He noted that the development and governance of AI present both unprecedented opportunities and challenges. 

He expressed his willingness to strengthen collaboration with the WIC, to actively participate in its events, and to approach discussions with openness and inclusivity, aiming to foster productive dialogues and jointly advance the development and responsible governance of AI technologies.

Experts including Wang Wei, vice-chair of WIC Special Committee on AI and COO of Weibo; Zhang Linghan, expert of the WIC Special Committee on AI, a professor at the China University of Political Science and Law and a member of the UN High-level Advisory Body on AI; Amit Thapar, head of International AI Policy, Strategy and Multilaterals at the UK Department for Science, Innovation and Technology; And official from Science and Technology Counsellor at the British Embassy in China attended the meeting.