The 2025 World Internet Conference (WIC) Wuzhen Summit commenced on November 7 in Wuzhen, Zhejiang Province. This year’s event convenes more than 1,600 participants from over 130 countries, bringing together global leaders and experts to discuss the future of the digital landscape.
During the opening session, attendees reflected on the significant vision proposed by Chinese President Xi Jinping a decade ago, which focused on creating a community with a shared future in cyberspace. This vision has guided international dialogue and cooperation in the ever-evolving internet domain. Participants highlighted the critical need for innovation-driven development as a cornerstone for fostering a dynamic digital economy, emphasizing the importance of promoting the widespread adoption of digital technologies and applications.
The discussions also underscored a commitment to maintaining common security as a foundational element in cyberspace. Participants advocated for increased exchanges and dialogue to balance development with security, aiming to create a peaceful and stable digital environment. Cultural exchanges were identified as essential in bridging gaps between civilizations, with an emphasis on using digital and intelligent technologies to preserve and innovate diverse cultural heritages.
Collaborative Governance and Cyber Sovereignty
The summit’s theme, “Forming an Open, Cooperative, Secure and Inclusive Future of Digital Intelligence—Jointly Build a Community with a Shared Future in Cyberspace,” serves as a framework for the 24 sub-forums scheduled throughout the event. Topics include the digital economy and the digital preservation and transmission of cultural heritage. Attendees are expected to engage in meaningful discussions that promote collaborative governance, respecting each country’s cyber sovereignty, development paths, and governance models.
Moreover, the participants stressed the need for a fair and equitable governance system that reflects the diverse interests and aspirations of nations. This approach aims to foster an inclusive atmosphere where all civilizations can thrive and coexist harmoniously.
The World Internet Conference continues to serve as a vital platform for shaping the future of global internet policies and practices, emphasizing cooperation and shared responsibility among nations in an increasingly interconnected world.
