HANGZHOU, Nov. 3 -- Chinese Premier Li Qiang on Tuesday called for a more people-centered approach to internet development amid rapid advances in artificial intelligence (AI).

Li made the remarks in a keynote speech delivered at the opening ceremony of the 2026 World Internet Conference Wuzhen Summit in Wuzhen, east China's Zhejiang Province, on Tuesday morning.

Highlighting that the World Internet Conference has been held for 13 consecutive years, Li stressed that, despite rapid technological advances, one major question of common concern remains unchanged, namely how to make the internet better serve humanity.

Li said the internet is undergoing an intelligent transformation and a systemic leap as it increasingly integrates with AI and other technologies.

Stressing the need to place greater emphasis on a people-centered approach to internet development in today's world, Li said the ultimate purpose must be to promote the all-round development of people. He emphasized that internet-related technologies should enhance human capabilities, expand choices, affirm human value and improve well-being, rather than make humans subordinate to technology or exacerbate disparities in human development.

Calling for joint efforts to build a community with a shared future in cyberspace, Li said China will continue to pursue innovation through openness, promote technology transfer and knowledge sharing, and work with other countries to foster an open, inclusive and dynamic digital innovation ecosystem.

On digital security, Li said China will respect the legitimate cybersecurity concerns of all other countries and work together with them to address security challenges, while opposing the creation of a "digital iron curtain."

Li also pledged that China will actively implement the Global Development Initiative and support Global South countries in building digital infrastructure and enhancing their digital technology capabilities.

About 1,800 participants, including government officials, representatives of international organizations such as the United Nations and global internet companies, as well as experts and scholars, attended the opening ceremony.

Following the opening, Li visited the Light of Internet Expo and Wuzhen's World Internet Science and Technology Museum.