PM Hun Manet Outlines Three Priorities for AI's Future

Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet has outlined three priority tasks that require collaborative efforts among nations for a brighter future of Artificial Intelligence (AI). He made these remarks at the AI World Congress, which officially opened on Friday, July 17, 2026, in Shanghai, China. The opening ceremony of the global conference was presided over by Chinese President Xi Jinping. The 2026 World AI Conference is held under the theme "Partnership in the AI Framework for a Brighter Future." The event saw the participation of leaders from various countries, international organizations, and numerous policymakers. In his keynote address at the global conference, Prime Minister Hun Manet emphasized that for future direction, three specific priority tasks must be undertaken to guide joint actions: First, "Bridging the Digital Divide." This involves ensuring that developing countries have full and equitable access to AI technology, along with data infrastructure and basic tools, to guarantee that no nation is left behind in the AI era. Second, "Investing Heavily in Human Capital." By focusing on specialized skills education, promoting digital literacy, encouraging cross-border research cooperation, and developing AI talent, the aim is to cultivate high-quality human resources, which are the most crucial foundation for responsible and inclusive AI innovation. Third, "Building a Governance Framework that is Prudent, Inclusive, Flexible, and Trustworthy." Legal mechanisms must respond to the diversity of economic needs in each society. These frameworks should protect fundamental rights, ensure ethical AI use, and strengthen public trust without hindering the spirit of technological innovation. As one of the first signatories to the agreement establishing the Global AI Cooperation Organization, Prime Minister Hun Manet stated that Cambodia is fully prepared to continue close cooperation with China and all international partners to jointly promote an AI future that is innovative, inclusive, secure, and strictly respects national sovereignty. Prime Minister Hun Manet added that through sincere partnership, trust-building, adherence to ethics, and practical cooperation, all countries must work together to ensure that AI becomes a powerful driving force for achieving shared prosperity and building a brilliant future for all of humanity.