Co-facilitators,

First of all, I would like to thank you for convening today's meeting. I also welcome the presence of USG Guy Ryder. China aligns itself with the statement made by Iraq on behalf of G77 and China.

Last year we adopted the Global Digital Compact (GDC)  which mandated to establish two important mechanisms, namely Independent International Scientific Panel on AI and Global Dialogue on AI Governance. We must work together to implement the GDC and make the two mechanisms become important platform of equal participation, extensive discussion and effective cooperation for all member states.

The functions of the Panel and the Dialogue may be different, but we believe they should both adhere to the following principles.

First, implement existing political consensus. The United Nations has produced a number of important outcomes in terms of cooperation and governance of AI, including the GDC and two General Assembly resolutions. The report of Secretary-General's High-level Advisory Body on Artificial Intelligence also provided valuable reference. The Panel and the Dialogue could build on these important outcomes, especially the consensus contained therein and translate the consensus  into actions, and inject new impetus into global AI cooperation and governance.

Second, take an open and inclusive multilateral approach. The Panel and the Dialogue should promote global AI cooperation and governance with the UN as the main channel, and ensure the views of member states, especially those of developing countries are well taken. The Panel’s composition must reflect gender balance, a balanced geographic distribution, a full representation of relevant disciplinary fields and diversified technology background. The Dialogue should be member-states driven, and ensure equal participation, collective decision and consensus-building. The Dialogue should also incorperate key stakeholders such as international organizations, industries, academia, and research institutions.

Third, strike a balance between promoting development and preventing risks. The development of AI should contribute to the growth of world economy and the well-being of humankind. In the meantime, AI risks must be effectively controlled and mitigated. The Panel and the Dialogue need to focus on policy exchange, knowledge and best-practice sharing and help to create an open, inclusive, cooperative and non-discriminatory global environment. Unilateralism, protectionism, decoupling and so-called "small yard and high fence" should be firmly rejected.

Fourth, make capacity-building a top priority. The Panel and the Dialogue should actively implement the GDC and relevant GA resolutions, by putting AI capacity-building high on their agenda. They could propose concrete cooperation initiatives, and push for more financial and technological support to developing countries. China and Zambia have jointly launched the Group of Friends for International Cooperation on AI Capacity-building last December. We look forward to the active participation of all member states and UN entities in the Group of Friends.

As China attaches great importance to the implementation of the GDC, we will support the co-facilitators in leading the inter-governmental process. We will participate constructively in the upcoming negotiation so as to put the Panel and the Dialogue into practice at an early date.

Thank you.