ASEAN, China working to build inclusive AI future

Editor's Note: The second China-ASEAN Ministerial Roundtable on Artificial Intelligence was held on Sept 17 during the 23rd China-ASEAN Expo in Nanning, Guangxi Zhuang autonomous region. Below are excerpts from the speeches of four panelists, as reported by China Daily's Li Huixian.

AI should be a force to unite ASEAN and China

By Santisouk Simmalavong

AI has evolved from a technical tool into a vital engine for socioeconomic development and an accelerator for the United Nations 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. By fostering digital transformation, AI can strengthen national competitiveness, improve public service delivery and elevate the quality of life of citizens.

However, the advancement of the cross-border application of AI also introduces risks, including data security, privacy and algorithmic bias. It is essential to balance AI innovation with robust security, ensuring that this technology is developed safely and used as a force for good within the Association of Southeast Asian Nations framework.

Responsible AI development initiatives such as the Roadmap on Digital Trade Standards in ASEAN and the China-ASEAN Free Trade Area 3.0 Upgrade Protocol should be utilized to open new avenues for digital integration and economic partnerships and to strengthen data interoperability and cybersecurity.

China's leadership in global AI governance is commendable, the global AI governance initiative is welcome and its efforts to amplify the voice of developing nations in shaping global AI frameworks are noteworthy. Laos supports the UN General Assembly resolution on enhancing international cooperation on AI capacity building. Having signed the agreement establishing the World AI Cooperation Organization, it is firmly committed to the principles of human-centric development, respect for national security, appreciation for the diversity of civilizations, and multilateralism.

WAICO serves as an open platform for aligning AI governance, bridging supply and demand gaps and ensuring a safe and trustworthy AI future for all. Collaborative research and development with Chinese institutions and enterprises, as well as ASEAN partners has immense potential and can enhance local AI capabilities in Laos. Human resource development remains a top priority for Laos. By drawing on China's educational and technical resources, it can train more skilled AI professionals.

Collaborating with Chinese and ASEAN enterprises to deploy AI in key sectors such as agriculture, health care, transportation, education, and tourism can directly enhance the quality of life for Lao people.

Laos' rich clean energy resources support the joint development of eco-friendly AI, ensuring a digital future that is secure, smart, sustainable and green.

AI should unite, not divide us. Through solidarity, mutual respect and sincere partnership, we can establish a comprehensive China-ASEAN AI collaboration network, ensuring no one is left behind.

The author is Lao minister of Technology and Communications. The views don't necessarily reflect those of China Daily.