Participated in the UN AI and Human Development Global Dialogue on Embodied AI and Sustainable Development in Xi’an, August 20–21, 2026

The United Nations AI and Human Development Global Dialogue was held in Xi’an, Shaanxi Province, China, from August 20 to 21, 2026. The Xi’an convening formed part of a global UN dialogue series examining how artificial intelligence is reshaping human development, societies and the relationship between people and technology.

Participation followed a formal invitation from the United Nations Office for Partnerships, issued on behalf of United Nations Deputy Secretary-General Amina J. Mohammed. The convening brought together a small, carefully curated group of leaders from government, civil society, academia and industry to examine the human and developmental implications of increasingly capable AI systems.

The invitation highlighted work exploring how technology can support better decision-making amid environmental and societal change as a relevant contribution to the dialogue on AI and human development.

Participation and Discussion Focus

The Xi’an discussions focused particularly on embodied artificial intelligence and robotics, examining how AI is moving beyond digital interfaces and increasingly interacting with people and the physical environment.

The dialogue addressed two broader questions: how AI will influence human development, and how humanity will shape the development of AI. Discussions also considered the implications of these technological changes for sustainable development and for global development priorities beyond 2030.

Within this context, participation contributed perspectives at the intersection of artificial intelligence, environmental challenges and sustainable development, including how technology can support more informed decision-making while remaining connected to human needs and long-term development objectives.

Key Discussion Areas

• Embodied AI and robotics: The implications of AI systems that increasingly operate and interact within physical environments.

• AI and human development: How AI may reshape work, communication, trust, culture and human interaction.

• AI and sustainable development: The potential role of emerging technologies in addressing environmental and societal challenges.

• Human-centred technology: How AI development can support human connection, purpose, well-being and inclusive development.

• Responsible AI governance: The relationship between technological development, ethical standards, access to AI capabilities and emerging governance frameworks.

• Development beyond 2030: How AI may influence the future direction of international sustainable development priorities.