Chinese PM rejects "digital iron curtain" amid technological rivalry with the US

Chinese Premier Li Qiang rejected the idea of a "digital iron curtain" and advocated for international cooperation in artificial intelligence during the World Internet Conference. He emphasized the need for open technological innovation and equitable digital governance, opposing technology transfer restrictions. Li highlighted the importance of maintaining human oversight over technology and warned against exacerbating inequalities. His remarks come amid U.S. restrictions on advanced semiconductor access for China, prompting Chinese firms to develop their own processors. Despite competition, China and the U.S. agreed to establish a dialogue on AI risks and benefits. The conference gathered around 1,800 participants, promoting international digital cooperation.