On November 20, 2024, President Xi Jinping delivered a congratulatory message to the opening ceremony of the highly anticipated 2024 World Internet Conference Wuzhen Summit via video link, highlighting the significance of this prestigious event in the realm of global digital advancements.
Xi emphasized the ongoing rapid progress in a new wave of scientific and technological revolution and industrial transformation. He noted that emerging technologies, particularly artificial intelligence, are not only gaining momentum but also significantly empowering humanity’s capability to understand and fundamentally reshape the world around them. This transformative progress, however, is accompanied by a variety of unpredictable risks and challenges that require concerted attention and action. He articulated a vision where societies should actively embrace the trends of digitalization, networking, and intelligentization. “We must recognize innovation as the main engine of growth, maintain security as a foundational prerequisite, and prioritize inclusiveness as our core value. It is crucial that we hasten our collective efforts to foster innovative, secure, and inclusive development in cyberspace,” Xi stated, urging nations to work collaboratively towards a luminous digital future.
The 2024 World Internet Conference Wuzhen Summit commenced on the very same day in the picturesque location of Wuzhen, Tongxiang City, Zhejiang Province. The theme for the summit, “Embracing a People-Centered and AI-for-Good Digital Future – Building a Community with a Shared Future in Cyberspace,” was carefully chosen to reflect the event’s focus on the positive role of technology in society. Hosted by the World Internet Conference and organized by the People’s Government of Zhejiang Province, it represents a key opportunity for global leaders and technology experts to engage in discussions that will shape the future of digital collaboration.
What are the key challenges that governments face in regulating emerging technologies like artificial intelligence?
**Interview with Dr. Li Wei, Technology Policy Expert**
**Interviewer:** Thank you for joining us, Dr. Li. President Xi Jinping recently delivered a congratulatory message at the 2024 World Internet Conference Wuzhen Summit, emphasizing the rapid advancement of technologies and the importance of innovation. What are your thoughts on his assertion that innovation should be recognized as the main engine of growth?
**Dr. Li Wei:** Thank you for having me. I believe President Xi’s emphasis on innovation is crucial as we navigate the complexities of a rapidly changing technological landscape. Innovation not only drives economic growth but also enhances our capabilities in addressing global challenges. However, it is critical to ensure that this innovation is equitable and beneficial for all.
**Interviewer:** Xi also warned about the unpredictable risks accompanying emerging technologies like artificial intelligence. How should nations prepare to address these challenges?
**Dr. Li Wei:** That’s an important point. As nations embrace these technologies, they must also invest in robust regulatory frameworks and ethical guidelines. Collaboration between governments, tech companies, and civil society is essential to mitigate potential risks and ensure that technological advancements improve societal well-being rather than exacerbate inequalities.
**Interviewer:** The summit’s theme highlights a “People-Centered and AI-for-Good Digital Future.” How do you interpret this vision in practical terms?
**Dr. Li Wei:** This vision suggests that technology should not only serve economic interests but should also prioritize societal and environmental needs. Practically, this means engaging diverse stakeholders in decision-making processes and ensuring that technology is designed to enhance quality of life for all members of society, particularly marginalized groups.
**Interviewer:** Given what we’ve discussed, it raises a provocative question: Do you believe that the pursuit of digital advancements poses a greater risk to security and privacy than the potential benefits of innovation?
**Dr. Li Wei:** That’s a debate worth having. On one hand, the benefits of innovation in enabling smarter cities, improved healthcare, and streamlined services are immense. On the other hand, the risks to privacy, security breaches, and even job displacement are substantial. Finding a balance between innovation and protection is critical, and public discourse on this issue is essential as we shape our digital future.
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Dr. Li, for sharing your insights on these pressing issues.
**Dr. Li Wei:** Thank you for having me. I look forward to continuing this important dialog.
