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The United Nations General Assembly unanimously adopted the first draft resolution on artificial intelligence (AI), which was submitted by the US with more than 120 member countries, including China, participating in the joint proposal. Analysts said China's co-signing of the draft highlights its responsible attitude toward actively participating in the global governance of AI and is another important manifestation of China's commitment to true multilateralism.

The UN General Assembly on Thursday adopted a landmark resolution on the promotion of "safe, secure and trustworthy" AI systems that will also benefit sustainable development for all. The text was backed by more than 120 other member states. And it also represents the first time the Assembly has adopted a resolution on regulating the emerging field, according to a release from the UN website.

As a major player in AI and a member of the Global South, China has been actively participating in the negotiations on the draft resolution with a constructive attitude, jointly improving the balance of the resolution text, bridging differences, and reaching consensus, the Global Times has learned from sources.

With the promotion of China and other developing countries, the final draft resolution includes contents on narrowing AI and other digital divides between countries and within countries; promoting a fair, open, inclusive and non-discriminatory business environment; and supporting the creation of small businesses.

It also includes utilizing opportunities and addressing challenges brought by AI systems in a collaborative, coordinated and inclusive manner; promoting inclusive international cooperation; and promoting the participation and representation of developing countries in deliberations.

AI is a new field, and global governance of AI is crucial for the common future of all countries. Cooperation among major countries in artificial intelligence is important, as is the capacity of developing countries, Zeng Yi, a research fellow from the Institute of Automation of Chinese Academy of Sciences and also an expert of the UN Secretary-General's AI Advisory Body, told the Global Times on Friday.

Zeng noted that China's co-signing of the draft highlights its responsible attitude toward actively participating in global governance of artificial intelligence, demonstrating its confident, open and inclusive attitude as a major country.

China's participation in backing the proposal showcased its commitment to true multilateralism, upholding the UN as the main channel, and supporting the UN's sustainable development cause, said the expert.