Chinese Vice Premier Ding Xuexiang outlined a bold vision for international data cooperation during Monday's inaugural assembly of the World Data Organization (WDO) in Beijing, positioning China as a key architect of 21st-century digital governance frameworks.
Xi's Vision for Data Cooperation
Reading President Xi Jinping's congratulatory message to delegates from 60+ countries and regions, Ding emphasized China's commitment to "building an open, cooperative, and mutually beneficial global data governance system." The WDO's establishment comes as global data flows are projected to grow 150% by 2028, according to recent industry estimates.
Three Pillars for Global Data Governance
The vice premier proposed a trilateral approach to digital governance:
Facilitating cross-border data flows through standardized protocols
Promoting equitable access to data-driven development opportunities
Establishing multilateral security frameworks to combat cyber threats
Digital China Meets Global Ambitions
Ding highlighted China's domestic progress in data property rights systems and AI infrastructure development, noting that digital economy now constitutes 42% of the Chinese mainland's GDP. "Our experience in smart city development and industrial digitization can benefit all WDO members," he stated.
The assembly concluded with 28 member states signing preliminary agreements on data sharing protocols for climate research and public health initiatives.
