AI Computing Power Development Forum｜Zhao Houlin calls for ethical and inclusive AI computing power development

[Photo/wicinternet.org]

Development ethics matter more than technological pathways, and inclusive value outweighs sheer computing peaks, said Zhao Houlin, former secretary-general of the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), at the AI Computing Power Development Forum on March 4.

The forum, under the theme of "Building an Integrated, Inclusive, and Green AI Computing Power Ecosystem" and hosted by the World Internet Conference, took place during the Mobile World Congress 2025 in Barcelona, Spain.

Zhao referenced the recent launch of DeepSeek's AI model, which demonstrated world-class performance while maintaining cost efficiency. The model's success on app stores in China, the US and other markets has sparked global discussions on computing power development and innovation. 

At the forum, Zhao recalled how UN Secretary-General António Guterres had emphasized AI and cybersecurity early in his tenure. In response, Zhao led the ITU to launch the "AI for Good Summit," which has since become an annual event, with the next edition set to take place in Geneva in July.

Highlighting integration, sustainability, and inclusivity, he stressed the need to break down data barriers and promote collaboration between research institutions, businesses and governments to ensure more efficient distribution of computing resources. Addressing concerns over resource waste and rising energy consumption, he warned that unregulated expansion could hinder long-term progress and called for green computing solutions to balance technological growth with environmental sustainability. Emphasizing computing power as a public good, Zhao urged greater efforts to support small-and-medium-sized enterprises, promote accessibility, and encourage broader participation in high-tech industries, particularly in developing regions where AI-driven innovations are improving agriculture, industry and digital inclusion.

Concluding his speech, Zhao urged global stakeholders to recognize the ethical and societal implications of computing power development and called for international collaboration to harness AI for the benefit of all and to ensure technological advancements contribute to human well-being.