Western tech policies risk undermining global innovation by excluding China from collaborative ecosystems, Web Summit Founder Paddy Cosgrave cautioned in a recent interview with CGTN. His remarks highlight growing concerns about fragmented tech development amid geopolitical tensions.
Cosgrave argued that European and American attempts to block Chinese participation in cutting-edge research and development represent a "short-term approach" that could backfire. "China’s scale, talent pool, and technological infrastructure make it indispensable to solving global challenges," he said, emphasizing that isolationist policies may slow progress in AI, green energy, and semiconductor development.
The warning comes as governments increasingly scrutinize cross-border tech partnerships. Business analysts note that China filed over half of the world’s AI patents in 2023, while its renewable energy investments outpace those of the US and EU combined. Academics warn that decoupling could fracture supply chains and delay climate goals.
For the Asian diaspora and global investors, Cosgrave’s comments underscore the economic stakes. Over 40% of Silicon Valley startups counted Chinese-born founders as of 2022, per Stanford research. Meanwhile, China’s digital economy is projected to reach $16 trillion by 2025, creating opportunities for cross-strait collaboration.
As travel and cultural exchanges rebound post-pandemic, Cosgrave urged rebuilding "bridges, not walls" in tech diplomacy. His appeal aligns with calls from UNCTAD for multilateral innovation frameworks to address shared challenges like healthcare and sustainable development.
