U.N. General Assembly Adopts Resolution Urging Equal Opportunities in AI Development

United Nations Adopts Resolution Urging Equal AI Opportunities for Developing Countries

In a groundbreaking move, the United Nations General Assembly has adopted a resolution sponsored by China and supported by the United States, calling on wealthy developed nations to close the gap with developing countries and ensure equal opportunities to use and benefit from artificial intelligence (AI).

The resolution, approved on Monday, follows the adoption of the first U.N. resolution on AI in March, which was spearheaded by the U.S. and co-sponsored by 123 countries including China. This latest resolution highlights the global effort to ensure that AI is safe, secure, and trustworthy, and that all nations have the chance to take advantage of its benefits.

The fact that both the U.S. and China, who are often seen as rivals, are cooperating on these international efforts shows their determination to be key players in shaping the future of this powerful technology. The consensus adoption of both resolutions by the 193-member General Assembly underscores the widespread global support for their leadership on this important issue.

Chinese Ambassador to the U.N., Fu Cong, emphasized the complementary nature of the two resolutions, with the U.S. resolution being more general and the Chinese one focusing on capacity building. He praised the positive role played by the U.S. in the process and expressed a desire for intensified cooperation with the U.S. and other countries on AI issues.

However, Fu strongly criticized the U.S. Treasury Department’s proposed rule to restrict and monitor U.S. investments in China for AI, computer chips, and quantum computing. He called on the U.S. to lift these sanctions, stating that they would not foster an inclusive business environment.

Both the U.S. and Chinese resolutions highlight the civilian applications of AI but also address the military dimension. Fu stressed the importance of reducing the risks posed by AI development and mentioned China’s active participation in negotiations on controlling lethal autonomous weapons in Geneva.

Overall, the resolutions aim to bridge the gap in AI technology between developed and developing countries, promote international cooperation, and ensure that AI governance upholds human rights and safeguards personal data. The support and collaboration between the U.S. and China on these resolutions signal a positive step towards a more inclusive and equitable AI landscape for all nations.