Distinguished guests, colleagues, and friends,
It is a great honor to accept this award on behalf of the Institute for AI International Governance (I-AIIG) of Tsinghua University. We would like to extend our sincere gratitude to UNESCO and the Government of Uzbekistan for recognizing our collective efforts in advancing research on AI ethics and governance. This award is not only a tribute to our I-AIIG’s work but also a call for sustained global cooperation to ensure AI benefits all humanity.
Since its inception in 2020, I-AIIG has been committed to promoting responsible and inclusive AI governance. Our mission is to build bridges: not only between research and policy or theory and practice, but very importantly, between the world's diverse civilizations and perspectives. From exploring profound questions about generative AI's capacity to convey human values, to establishing robust ethical guidelines, we navigate the journey of technological progress guided by a shared moral responsibility.
Our work has also highlighted the importance of multilateral cooperation. We have collaborated with organizations including UNESCO, UNDP, and ITU to support developing countries in participating in global rule-making and to build platforms like the International AI Cooperation and Governance Forum and the Youth AI4SDG Bootcamp. These initiatives empower diverse voices—especially young people—to contribute to a safer and more equitable AI future.
When reflecting on AI ethics, we are reminded that technology does not determine its own destiny; human choices do. AI’s impact on our societies depends on how we design, govern, and use it. We must therefore foster a sense of shared stewardship, where innovation is guided not only by intelligence but also by empathy and wisdom.
On behalf of Tsinghua University and our I-AIIG team (let me take this opportunity to introduce two of my colleagues who are here on site, Professors Liang Zheng and Xiao Qian), we wish to dedicate this honor to all scholars and practitioners worldwide who are working tirelessly to ensure AI remains a force for good. Let us continue to learn from each other across nations and cultures, and together build an AI future that embodies the best of our shared humanity.
Thank you!
