WORLD INTELLIGENCE EXPO 2026

Friends —

Artificial intelligence is profoundly reshaping how we live, work, govern and cooperate.

And this demands that at global and national levels, we balance our determination to continue innovating with a collaborative approach to managing the global risks. 

Excellencies,
Friends,

在天津的各位朋友们，大家下午好！

My thanks to the WIE 2026 Organizers: being here in Tianjin for the Artificial Intelligence Theme Day is particularly special for me. 

It is my first official visit outside Beijing since I took office as head of the UN in China less than two months ago!

Friends— 

AI is redefining productivity and possibility at an unprecedented scale, transforming economies and societies at remarkable speed. 

As this unfolds, we must ensure its benefits are shared equitably, especially giving developing countries a real voice so that no one is left behind.

In September 2024, UN Member States adopted the Pact for the Future and its Global Digital Compact, committing to harness AI for sustainable development while managing risks. 

The UN is now working with all partners to turn these commitments into practical outcomes.

We see 3 major opportunities:

First, AI can accelerate progress on the Sustainable Development Goals — from healthcare and agriculture to climate action — helping us reach those long left behind.

Second, AI can drive inclusive economic growth. 

China’s leadership in intelligent manufacturing and digital infrastructure shows how innovation can create real value. 

But this requires investment in skills, reskilling and lifelong learning.

Third, AI can strengthen governance and public services through smarter, more responsive, and transparent systems.

At the same time, we must be clear‑eyed about the risks.

Inequality in access to data and computing power – within countries and between them.

Concerns about privacy, bias, misinformation and job displacement. 

Without safeguards, AI can reinforce discrimination and undermine trust.

A 2018 research study showed that that some AI facial recognition systems misclassified dark‑skinned women more than one-third of the time versus less than 1% for light‑skinned men.

As United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has warned, “We need artificial intelligence that is safe, secure and aligned with hu

Friends —

AI governance is not only a technical or legal challenge — it is a deeply ethical and societal one.

So what must we do?

First, promote inclusive global AI governance. 

The UN is supporting dialogue among governments, industry, academia and civil society, including through the Secretary‑General’s Scientific Panel and Global Dialogue on AI, on which two Chinese experts sit.

Second, ensure a people‑centered approach. 

Technology must serve human dignity, with ethics, transparency, and accountability embedded from design to deployment.

Third, expand capacity‑building and South‑South cooperation so developing countries can actively shape AI rather than be left behind.

Fourth, advance AI for public good — in climate, health, education, and disaster response — ensuring innovation drives sustainable development.

China is a vital partner.

Its innovations and experience offer important lessons.

And its role in international cooperation is essential to building a shared future where AI supports peace and prosperity.

Friends— 

The choices we make in the present will determine whether AI deepens divides or expands opportunity in the future.

There is also a personal reason I wanted to be here in Tianjin. 

My father once wrote a book about China of a century ago, focusing on Tianjin and Beijing. 

Today, I have the privilege to be here discussing not the past, but a fast moving future shaped by AI. 

My father’s work reminds me that transformation is a constant — and that we manage it best together.

The United Nations remains committed to working with China and all partners to ensure AI is human‑centered, inclusive, and beneficial to all.

I wish the AI Theme Day great success and look forward to our discussions ahead. 

谢谢大家！