China calls for global solidarity in AI governance at UN debate

NEW YORK, United States (MNTV) – Chinese Executive Vice Minister for Foreign Affairs Ma Zhaoxu urged stronger international cooperation on artificial intelligence (AI), warning against its misuse and the development of lethal autonomous weapons.

Speaking at a UN Security Council open debate on AI and international peace and security, Ma said the Council’s role in “advancing global AI governance and managing non-traditional security risks is indispensable.”

“The development of artificial intelligence must always aim to enhance the well-being of humanity,” he stressed, calling for a people-centered approach.

Ma urged member states to foster an “open, inclusive, fair and non-discriminatory environment for technological development,” while rejecting unilateralism and protectionism. He also called for accelerated efforts to close the “North-South AI divide.”

“It’s essential to ensure that AI remains under human control and prevents the emergence of lethal autonomous weapons that operate without human intervention,” he said, adding that the misuse of AI by terrorist groups, extremist forces, and transnational criminal networks poses serious risks.

He noted that China had released a position paper in 2021 on regulating the military applications of AI and pledged that Beijing would continue working with all countries to support global AI governance.

“China will contribute wisdom and strength to building a world of lasting peace and universal security,” Ma said.