Shanghai to strengthen foundational AI research

National legislators and political advisers from universities in Shanghai are urging a stronger focus on foundational artificial intelligence research to bolster the nation's capabilities in basic theories and original algorithm development for AI industrialization.

The calls for the change, made during the annual sessions of China's top legislature and advisory body known as the "two sessions" which were held in Beijing in March, emphasize the need to strengthen basic theoretical research in AI data science, improve top-level planning and coordination for key technology research, development and application innovation, and build high-quality data sets.

"Universities, especially the top-tier ones in Shanghai, should serve as the best source and research pioneer area for driving the innovation and development of AI technology," said Gu Xianglin, a National People's Congress deputy and a professor at Tongji University.