The United Nations has appointed 40 experts to its newly formed Independent International Scientific Panel on Artificial Intelligence, with three-year terms beginning this week. Two prominent Chinese scientists – Shanghai Artificial Intelligence Research Institute President Song Haitao and Alibaba Cloud founder Wang Jian – are among the selected members.
Chinese Expertise in Global AI Governance
Song Haitao, 40, is recognized for pioneering Shanghai’s AI research infrastructure and winning top honors at the International Exhibition of Inventions Geneva. Wang Jian, 64, revolutionized cloud computing through his work on distributed architectures and public service models. Their inclusion underscores China’s growing influence in shaping global AI policy frameworks.
Multinational Collaboration for Equitable Development
UN Secretary-General António Guterres emphasized the panel’s role in providing "rigorous, independent scientific insight" to help member states engage equally in AI governance discussions. Selected from 2,600 candidates through a UN-led review process, the panel features gender-balanced representation across 35 countries. Members will assess AI risks, opportunities, and socioeconomic impacts through February 2029.
