China calls for people-centered approach to internet development

China has called for a people-centered approach to internet development, emphasizing that technological advances should improve human well-being rather than widen development disparities, Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning said on Tuesday.

Speaking at a regular news briefing as the 2026 World Internet Conference Wuzhen Summit opened in Zhejiang province, Mao said China proposed the vision of building a community with a shared future in cyberspace in 2015, offering China's approach to addressing challenges in internet development and governance.

The ultimate goal of internet development is to promote the all-around development of people, she said, adding that internet technologies should enhance human capabilities, expand people's choices, and improve their well-being, rather than make humans subordinate to technology or deepen developmental divides.

Mao said China would pursue open innovation, promote technology transfer and knowledge sharing, and work with other countries to foster an open, inclusive, and dynamic digital innovation ecosystem.

She also stressed the need to build a strong digital security framework, saying China would continue to respect countries' legitimate cybersecurity concerns, work together with other countries to address security challenges, and oppose the creation of a "digital iron curtain".

China will continue implementing the Global Development Initiative and support Global South countries in developing digital infrastructure and strengthening their technological capabilities, she said.

Mao also called for open dialogue and improvements to the multilateral governance system, saying China would uphold the principles of extensive consultation, joint contribution and shared benefits, and work to make global internet governance more just and equitable.