In the wake of the 2025 BRICS Summit in Rio de Janeiro, governments and stakeholders from across the Global South convened in a special roundtable to chart a path toward a more inclusive “Digital South.” Hosted by Wang Guan and co-presented by CGTN and the Global Development Promotion Center (GDPC) of the China International Development Cooperation Agency (CIDCA), the event explored strategies to bridge the AI divide and transform digital potential into shared prosperity.
With the expanded BRICS+ framework now representing over 50% of the world’s population, the roundtable stressed three pillars for inclusive digital growth:
- Access & Infrastructure – strengthening broadband networks and affordable connectivity across underserved regions;
- Capacity Building – empowering local talent with digital skills through targeted training and education programs;
- Collaborative Innovation – fostering partnerships between governments, private sector and youth-driven startups to co-develop open-source AI solutions.
Diplomats, scholars, industry leaders and youth innovators shared insights on ethical AI governance and the importance of cross-border data flows. They underscored the need for coordinated investment under the Global Development Initiative (GDI), launched at the Rio summit, to ensure digital advancements benefit all communities.
By aligning national strategies and leveraging collective expertise, participants outlined a roadmap for transforming the Global South into a thriving digital ecosystem—one where inclusive policies, sustainable technologies and youth leadership drive long-term, equitable growth.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
