China and Laos have signed an agreement to establish the China-Laos Artificial Intelligence (AI) Innovation Cooperation Center, marking the first AI-focused collaboration between China and an ASEAN nation. The initiative aims to strengthen Laos’ digital capabilities and promote AI-driven advancements across various sectors in the country.  

The partnership is spearheaded by China’s Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region and is expected to play a significant role in fostering technological cooperation between China and ASEAN countries. The Guangxi delegation highlighted that the negotiations and signing process were completed in record time, reflecting the strong commitment and efficient execution of both nations in advancing AI collaboration.  

This initiative aligns with the “China-ASEAN Joint Statement on Facilitating Cooperation in Building a Sustainable and Inclusive Digital Ecosystem” and serves as a model for future AI partnerships between China and ASEAN nations. Guangxi officials emphasized that the center will be a key step in implementing China’s “AI Capacity-Building Action Plan for Good and for All,” which focuses on promoting the inclusive and ethical development of AI worldwide.  

Moving forward, China plans to expand its AI cooperation with other ASEAN countries, creating additional AI innovation hubs to support independent AI development, cross-border data collaboration, and talent training. The partnership will also facilitate efforts to digitally preserve ASEAN languages and cultures, improve technological accessibility, and enhance social welfare through AI.  

The China-Laos AI Innovation Cooperation Center is expected to accelerate Laos’ digital transformation, positioning the country to benefit from AI-driven economic and social growth. The broader initiative also reinforces China’s strategy of strengthening AI collaboration within ASEAN, ensuring technological advancements serve the greater good of humanity.

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