China has pledged its commitment to promote the implementation of the Global Digital Compact (GDC), following its adoption at the United Nations Summit of the Future held at the UN headquarters in New York on Sunday.
Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian announced on Monday that “China welcomes the adoption of the GDC at the UN,” emphasizing the nation’s role in advancing global digital cooperation.
The GDC, annexed to the Pact for the Future adopted during the summit, serves as an inclusive global framework designed to bridge digital, data, and innovation divides. It aims to advance an open, free, secure, and human-centered digital future for all, anchored in universal human rights and supporting the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
The compact proposes five key objectives: closing digital divides; expanding inclusivity in the digital economy; fostering an inclusive, open, and safe digital space; advancing responsible and equitable digital governance; and enhancing international AI governance for the benefit of humanity.
Lin Jian highlighted that the compact reflects the urgent call from all countries, especially those in the Global South, to address digital disparities and governance deficits. “It demonstrates the common aspiration of the international community to respond to digital opportunities and challenges, and build an inclusive, open, fair, and secure digital space through joint effort and cooperation,” he stated.
China has been consistently committed to promoting global digital governance. In response to challenges like cybersecurity and AI governance, China has proposed initiatives such as the Global Initiative on Data Security and the Global AI Governance Initiative.
According to Lin, the measures outlined in the GDC, including adopting common standards for global data security and initiating a Global Dialogue on AI Governance and intergovernmental negotiations, are consistent with the actions needed to advance China’s proposed initiatives.
China actively participated in the negotiation process of the GDC and played a significant role in its adoption.
Looking ahead, Lin affirmed that China will uphold the principle of planning together, building together, and benefiting together. “We will collaborate with the international community to promote global digital governance, implement the GDC, and build a community with a shared future in the digital world,” he said.
Reference(s):
China commits to promoting implementation of Global Digital Compact
cgtn.com
