Press conference on guiding principles of the 4th plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee

TASS:

China's investment in science and technology continues to grow. Artificial intelligence (AI) is developing at a rapid pace. What are China's goals in developing AI? How can we ensure the efficient utilization of investment in scientific and technological research and development? Thank you.

Mo Gaoyi:

Mr. Yin Hejun will answer your questions.

Yin Hejun:

Thank you for your questions. You have asked two questions: One is about investment in science and technology and the other is about AI.

Firstly, about investment in science and technology. Attaching importance to and strengthening investment in science and technology is a common consensus among countries worldwide, particularly in developed countries. The Chinese government attaches great importance to this. Since the 18th CPC National Congress, China has achieved rapid growth in both the total amount and the intensity of its investment in science and technology. We adhere to the principle of targeting the global frontiers of science and technology, economic development, major national needs, and the health and safety of the people. We leverage the advantages of the new nationwide system for mobilizing resources and focus on enhancing the efficiency of our investment in science and technology. First, we focus on national strategic needs and strengthen coordination of scientific and technological resources. We have implemented a number of major scientific projects in core industries and fields, driving breakthroughs in key technologies. We continue to increase the proportion of investment in basic research, encouraging original innovation and providing scientific and technological support for high-quality development. Second, we adhere to diversified investment and increase the supply of scientific and technological resources. We continue to strengthen fiscal investment in science and technology and encourage enterprises to increase their research and development spending. We vigorously develop technology finance, and encourage and guide private capital to support technological innovation. Third, we strengthen supervision, management, and performance evaluation to ensure the efficient utilization of scientific and technological resources. We continuously strengthen the supervision of science and technology funding, establish and improve the classified evaluation system for scientific and technological activities, and promote the open sharing of scientific and technological resources. These efforts maximize the benefits of valuable scientific and technological resources.

Then, about AI. The Chinese government places strong emphasis on AI, continuously fostering a favorable innovation ecosystem and driving its rapid development. First, scientific and technological innovation in AI continues to achieve breakthroughs. We continuously strengthen strategic research and technological breakthroughs in AI, producing a series of internationally influential innovations in areas such as foundation large models and humanoid robots. Second, the scale and quality of our AI industry is rapidly improving. By the end of 2024, the total number of AI enterprises exceeded 4,500. As the industry continues to expand, a collaborative innovation ecosystem is rapidly taking shape. Third, AI has delivered notable results in advancing economic and social development. The "AI Plus" initiative has been implemented in key sectors including manufacturing, finance and health care, creating new engines for economic growth.

Next, we will thoroughly implement the requirements outlined in the recommendations, continuously enhancing the top-level design and systematic planning for AI development during the 15th Five-Year Plan period. To begin, we will further strengthen basic research and breakthroughs in key, core technologies. Our focus on developing new model algorithms and high-end computing chips will enable the continuous improvement of technological foundations for AI development. Secondly, we will further implement the "AI Plus" initiative, promoting the deep integration of AI with technological innovation, industrial development, consumption upgrading, and livelihood security. Thirdly, we will strengthen AI governance by improving relevant laws and regulations, policy systems, application standards and ethical guidelines, while continuously enhancing governance mechanisms. Fourth, we will promote international exchanges and cooperation, making AI an international public good that benefits all of humanity and fosters inclusive sharing. Let us work together to build a global governance system for AI and jointly address global challenges.

Thank you.