AI for all: UNIDO-affiliated workshop bridges global intelligence divide

The Artificial Intelligence (AI) Capacity Building Workshop was held at the Shanghai Artificial Intelligence Research Institute on Thursday as part of efforts to implement the United Nations General Assembly resolution on "Enhancing International Cooperation on Capacity-Building of Artificial Intelligence" and the Global AI Capacity Building Initiative.

Government officials from Indonesia, Pakistan, Egypt, Zambia, Brazil, Kazakhstan and other countries across Asia, Africa, Latin America and Europe took part in the workshop.

The workshop combined studies, field research, and panel discussions, highlighting China's AI applications in healthcare, education and green development. These efforts aim to bridge the global intelligence gap and advance an inclusive, equitable and sustainable digital future.

Song Haitao, director of the Shanghai Artificial Intelligence Research Institute, said AI is reshaping the global economic landscape at unprecedented speed.

"International cooperation in AI has become a key enabler for boosting efficiency and driving transformation worldwide," said Song, emphasizing that the Institute, as an AIM Global Center of Excellence affiliated with the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO), is expanding global partnerships in AI research, application and governance.

Song also highlighted the Chinese government's recently announced plans to establish the World Artificial Intelligence Cooperation Organization (WAICO) in Shanghai, inviting participants to actively engage in the new platform aimed at deepening dialogue and governance, and making AI a "bridge of wisdom" for peace and shared development.

During the AI Solutions Sharing session, leading Chinese technology enterprises presented digital transformation solutions and application scenarios across multiple sectors. The demonstrations showcased China's diverse innovations in AI research and deployment, sparking lively discussion among participants about frontier applications, national development needs, and pathways for international cooperation.

In recent years, Shanghai has made AI a strategic priority and a key driver of its innovation-driven economy. The city is building an "AI highland" and fostering a world-class industrial cluster. The AI workshop exemplifies Shanghai's commitment to advancing the Global AI Governance Initiative, underscoring its openness to sharing development opportunities and working with international partners to ensure that AI technology benefits all.