The 78th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) reached a significant milestone on Monday by unanimously adopting a resolution proposed by China, supported by over 140 member states. This resolution aims to enhance international cooperation on the capacity building of artificial intelligence (AI), promoting a unified approach to harnessing the technology's potential.

Dubbed "Enhancing International Cooperation on Capacity-building of Artificial Intelligence," the resolution stresses that the development of AI should prioritize human-centered principles. It advocates for beneficial intelligence that ultimately serves humanity, highlighting the need for maintenance and growth in ethical standards.

Central to the resolution is the encouragement of international cooperation geared towards assisting nations, particularly developing countries, in strengthening their AI capabilities. Such initiatives aim to amplify their presence and voice within global AI governance while fostering an open, equitable, and non-discriminatory business atmosphere.

The resolution is also geared toward promoting inclusive, beneficial, and sustainable AI development, contributing to the objectives laid out in the UN's 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. This goal is increasingly critical as nations strive to leverage technology for broad societal benefits.

China's permanent representative to the UN, Fu Cong, addressed the General Assembly during the presentation of the resolution, emphasizing that the rapid advancement of AI technology is profoundly influencing economic and social frameworks globally. However, he noted that many countries, especially those in the developing world, are still unable to fully participate in or benefit from AI advancements, exacerbating the global digital divide.

Fu observed a strong desire among UN member states to boost international collaboration in AI capacity building, advocating for equitable access to the technology and the sharing of knowledge and resources. He asserted that the resolution outlines important cooperative measures to address these challenges.

The ambassador articulated the resolution's primary objectives: to ensure that all nations, particularly developing ones, can equally benefit from AI advancements. He stated that bridging the digital divide and improving global AI governance are critical to achieving these aspirations while accelerating progress toward the 2030 Sustainable Development Agenda.

Fu further remarked that the unanimous support for the resolution signifies a collective agreement among member states to enhance global AI governance through collaboration and dialogue. He characterized China's initiative as a reflection of a responsible and leading attitude towards AI development.

A spokesperson for China's permanent mission to the UN also highlighted the reception of the resolution among member states, especially within developing nations. The resolution's emphasis on AI capacity building was praised as a critical step toward addressing the digital divide and ensuring shared benefits from AI.

In conjunction with this resolution, China has also been active in advocating for AI's role in promoting women's rights at the UN. Speaking on behalf of over 80 countries, the Chinese representative emphasized the immense potential of AI in driving social progress and gender equality, tying it to the upcoming 30th anniversary of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action.

In conclusion, the approval of this resolution on AI capacity building marks a pivotal moment for international cooperation in technology governance. This reflects a broader commitment to using AI as a force for good, contributing to global development, and addressing pressing social issues while promoting equitable access to resources.