The first-ever Artificial Intelligence (AI) Safety Summit, hosted by British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and Technology Secretary Michelle Donelan, commenced on November 1 at Bletchley Park in Buckinghamshire, England. Among the 28 countries represented, China’s participation has drawn significant attention, highlighting its crucial role in the global AI landscape.
The Chinese delegation, led by Vice Minister of Science and Technology Wu Zhaohui, signifies China’s willingness to engage in international dialogue on AI development and safety. China’s presence underscores its commitment to collaborating with global partners in addressing the opportunities and challenges presented by AI technologies.
Over the past decade, China has emerged as a leader in AI innovation, making significant advancements in robotics, drone technology, cloud computing, and AI-driven applications such as smart assistants and chatbots. This rapid development has positioned China as a key player in the global tech industry.
Despite China’s contributions, some Western perspectives have expressed reservations about its involvement in international AI discussions. Former British Prime Minister Liz Truss criticized China’s invitation to the summit, stating on social media, “China should not be invited to the UK’s AI Summit at Bletchley Park. We should be working with our allies, not those seeking to subvert freedom and democracy.”
However, the UK’s decision to include China reflects an acknowledgment of the importance of global cooperation in AI safety and governance. By bringing together diverse nations, tech companies, think tanks, and academic institutions, the summit aims to foster a collaborative approach to harnessing AI’s potential while addressing its risks.
The AI Safety Summit continues through November 2, providing a platform for open dialogue and partnership among the world’s leading AI innovators and policymakers.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
