Kuwait City — China is shaping the world’s digital future with responsible artificial intelligence (AI) and a human-centered vision, a Kuwaiti official said. Sheikh Mohammed Al-Sabah, chairman of Kuwait’s Association of Artificial Intelligence of Things (AAIOT), spoke to Xinhua about China’s achievements in innovation and digital governance.
He explained that China is not only building factories but also creating “a new philosophy of the relationship between humans and machines.” By placing AI at the core of its national strategy and guiding it with ethics, China offers a model that combines technological strength with moral responsibility.
Sheikh Mohammed emphasized that China’s strategy includes both foresight and long-term planning. “China has become a pillar shaping the world’s digital future,” he said. He added that China is not only competing in the global AI race but also helping countries adopt responsible AI practices.
Regarding Kuwait and the Gulf, Sheikh Mohammed said the future of cities depends on ideas, not just oil. Kuwait is steadily advancing toward its “New Kuwait 2035” vision. This plan focuses on data-driven infrastructure, smart education, digital identity, and sustainable energy.
He also noted that Kuwait is building “the infrastructure of thought — the root of a digital nation.” However, the country faces challenges. These include a shortage of skilled professionals, a weak innovation ecosystem, and limited advanced data governance regulations.
Sheikh Mohammed pointed out that these challenges create opportunities for deeper cooperation between China and Gulf countries. For instance, both sides could build high-performance computing centers, develop smart cities, train AI professionals, and set ethical AI standards. Together, these efforts could form a global governance system balancing efficiency with human values.
He praised China’s Digital Silk Road initiative, calling it “a bridge of light connecting Asia and the Gulf.” This initiative also opens opportunities for collaboration in green energy, smart education, and joint research.
Looking ahead, Sheikh Mohammed expressed confidence that the next five years will bring a new model of Kuwait-China cooperation. “This partnership will grow from shared dreams, not just corporate contracts,” he said. Key areas include smart cities, green energy, digital healthcare, and smart education. Kuwait’s Silk City and Gateway Smart City will be landmarks of this collaboration.
Finally, China’s leadership in AI, combined with Kuwait’s ambitious digital transformation, signals a transformative era for the Gulf. It links advanced technology with human-centered development.
