Press Release of China-ASEAN AI Cooperation Symposium

摘要：Phnom Penh, December 9, 2024 – China Institute of International Studies (CIIS), in partnership with the Economic, Social, and Cult

Phnom Penh, December 9, 2024 – China Institute of International Studies (CIIS), in partnership with the Economic, Social, and Cultural Council (ECOSOCC) of Cambodia, held a symposium to explore opportunities for collaboration in artificial intelligence (AI) development and governance. The symposium was presided over by H.E. Vongsey Vissoth, Permanent Deputy Prime Minister and Minister in Charge of the Office of the Council of Ministers, Cambodia, along with key dignitaries such as H.E. Senior Minister Chhem Kieth Rethy, Minister in Charge of ECOSOCC, H.E. Ambassador Wang Wenbin, the Chinese Ambassador to Cambodia, and H.E. Ambassador Chen Bo, President of CIIS.

The symposium served as a platform for dialogue on how Cambodia, China and other ASEAN countries could align their efforts to address the opportunities and challenges of advanced AI technologies. It brought together experts, policymakers, and stakeholders to share perspectives and propose pathways for fostering inclusive, sustainable AI development. The report titled China-ASEAN Cooperation on AI Development and Governance: Observations on Progress and Suggestions for Advancement, co-authored by CIIS and China Academy of Information and Communications Technology was shared at the symposium.

7 Key Discussion Points

1. Exploring Communication and Coordination on AI Policies

Participants discussed the potential to build on existing agreements, such as the ASEAN-China Joint Statement on Facilitating Cooperation in Building a Sustainable and Inclusive Digital Ecosystem. Suggestions were made to establish mechanisms for policy dialogue that could enhance the exchange of updates and ideas on AI development and governance.

2. Identifying Opportunities for Collaboration Among Enterprises

Delegates explored ways to connect enterprises across China and ASEAN, focusing on areas like research and development, market applications, and innovation. Establishing joint AI industrial parks or hubs was suggested as one of several possible approaches to support industrial cooperation.

3. Encouraging Talent Development and Knowledge Exchange

The importance of fostering talent and facilitating academic exchanges was emphasized, with ideas such as student exchange programs, research collaborations, and joint initiatives being proposed to encourage learning and innovation.

4. Discussing AI Governance Frameworks

Suggestions included exploring shared standards for governance, focusing on ethical considerations, risk management, and cybersecurity. Participants highlighted the need for balanced and inclusive frameworks to guide AI development around the globe and in the region.

5. Considering Cross-border Data Collaboration

Respect for digital sovereignty and alignment of data governance standards were raised as key considerations. Harmonizing data protection laws and establishing cross border data platforms and trust mechanisms were suggested to improve the safety and convenience of intra-regional data flow and build a more open and secure cross border data ecosystem.

6. Examining Opportunities for Capacity Building

Ideas were shared on how collaborative training programs and public-private partnerships could strengthen regional capacity and innovation in AI. It was suggested to carry out cooperation under the frameworks of AI Capacity-Building Action Plan for Good and for All and Group of Friends for International Cooperation on AI Capacity Building.

7. Proposing Regular Dialogues

The possibility of institutionalizing the symposium on a rotational basis was suggested, allowing for continued discussions on AI opportunities and challenges across the region.

A Shared Vision for Dialogue

H.E. Permanent Deputy Prime Minister Vongsey Vissoth noted the importance of dialogue in navigating the challenges of rapid technological change while fostering growth and innovation. H.E. Senior Minister Chhem Kieth Rethy emphasized Cambodia’s openness to sharing perspectives and experiences to create a supportive environment for AI development. H.E. Ambassador Wang Wenbin pointed out that China-ASEAN AI cooperation enjoys solid foundation, great potential and bright prospects，and the two sides should enhance cooperation and activley advance the building of a closer China-ASEAN community with a shared future. H.E. Ambassador Chen Bo highlighted China's dedication and readiness to closer cooperation with ASEAN countries in the spirit of Global AI Governance Initiative.

The symposium concluded with participants agreeing to maintain an open and constructive dialogue reflecting the shared interest in exploring areas for mutual benefit.