Chinese Envoy Stresses Vital Need for Enhanced AI Cooperation for a Brighter Future

The recent discussions between Iran and China highlight the vital need for enhanced cooperation in advanced technologies, specifically in the realm of artificial intelligence. This collaboration is deemed essential for shaping the future of both nations. During a meeting in Tehran, Chinese ambassador Cong Peiwu emphasized the importance of this partnership while acknowledging Iran’s progress in the information and communication technology sector.

On Monday, Peiwu met with Iran’s Minister of Information and Communication Technology, Sattar Hashemi. The ambassador praised Iran’s advancements, stating that despite various challenges and external pressures, the two countries have successfully expanded their collaborative efforts.

Key points from their discussion included:

• The potential for collaboration in the field of artificial intelligence.
• The significance of leveraging mutual capabilities to achieve the goals outlined in their strategic partnership.
• The ongoing implementation of previously established agreements in the ICT sector.
• Plans for enhancing cooperation in areas such as the digital economy, communication infrastructure, processing infrastructure, space systems, and data transit.

Minister Hashemi indicated that he would pursue joint programs during his upcoming visit to China, further solidifying the bonds between the two countries.

In March 2021, Iran and China formalized their commitment to a 25-year comprehensive cooperation document. This agreement was signed by Iran’s then Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi at the Iranian Foreign Ministry. More recently, in December 2022, both nations finalized 16 memoranda of understanding under this strategic framework, paving the way for enhanced collaboration.

Iran’s Progress in AI Readiness

According to the latest report by the Oxford Insights index, Iran has made significant strides in its AI readiness. The country is now ranked 91st among 188 nations, a notable improvement from its previous position of 94th in 2023.

Artificial intelligence plays a crucial role not only in technological governance but also in enhancing government efficiency. The Government AI Readiness Index has become an essential tool for policymakers, providing a reliable benchmark adopted by national governments.

This year’s index evaluates the AI readiness of 188 countries amid increasing complexities, as governments grapple with evolving citizen needs and challenges such as:

• Economic uncertainty
• Climate risks
• Rising inequalities

The 2024 index assesses 40 indicators across three main pillars: Government, Technology Sector, and Data & Infrastructure. Its primary objective is to highlight progress, identify gaps, and offer actionable insights for policymakers looking to integrate AI into public services effectively.

At its core, the index poses the question, “How ready are governments to implement AI in the delivery of public services?” By addressing this query, the index serves as a practical tool, aiding evidence-based decision-making, and helping policymakers harness AI’s potential to better serve citizens globally.

Key findings from the index regarding Iran’s performance include:

• Data and Infrastructure Pillar: Iran’s best ranking at 66.29, an improvement from 55.88 the previous year. This includes:
  • Infrastructure: 70
  • Data Availability: 43
  • Data Representativeness: 121
• Technology Pillar: A score of 38.82, slightly up from 38.77 in 2023, comprising:
  • Human Capital: 54
  • Innovation Capacity: 62
  • Maturity: 82
• Government Pillar: The lowest score of 26.54, which has decreased from 31.56 in 2023, including:
  • Vision: 84
  • Governance and Ethics: 145
  • Digital Capacity: 92
  • Adaptability: 177

Interestingly, Iran’s regional ranking has also improved, climbing from 17th in 2023 to 16th in 2024. This upward trend reflects the country’s commitment to advancing its capabilities in artificial intelligence and enhancing its overall technological landscape.

As the collaboration between Iran and China deepens, especially in the fields of ICT and AI, both nations are poised to leverage their strengths to navigate the complexities of the modern technological landscape.