Che Jun, Party chief of Zhejiang province, speaks at a meeting themed on AI on Dec 24. [Photo by Liang Zhen/zjol.com.cn]

East China's Zhejiang province is determined to speed up the development of new artificial intelligence (AI) technologies, according to remarks made by provincial Party Chief Che Jun at a meeting on Dec 24.

Sticking to the goal of promoting digitalization of Zhejiang, Che said the province should seize opportunities, give full play to its advantages and accelerate the building of a demonstration zone for innovative development of new AI technologies.

"AI technologies are strategic to the new-round scientific and technological revolution," Che said, explaining that since last year, AI has been given a special place by Zhejiang province and regarded as a priority in developing digital economy.

Che urged all parties to pool their strengths and resources, and pave an efficient roadway with Zhejiang characteristics to develop AI in the future.

He said a group of leading companies, platforms and alliances in the AI sector should be incubated and more private enterprises, especially those from the science and technology industry, should be encouraged to get involved in AI development.

Concerning social applications, the Party secretary pointed out three possible directions – public service, social governance and securities.

"Developing AI might be double-edged, so the governments should strengthen the precautionary measures to make sure the process is safe, reliable and controllable."