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On October 27, the Second Intelligent Scientist Ecosystem Alliance Conference and Forum was held at the University of Science and Technology of China, themed “Building Infrastructure for Intelligent Scientists to Ignite a Paradigm Revolution.”

The Intelligent Scientist Ecosystem Alliance, established by the University of Science and Technology of China in collaboration with leading domestic institutions in the field of intelligent material sciences, aims to promote the sharing of research robot command sets, experimental template libraries, and frameworks for scientific intelligent agents. The goal is to advance the standardization and infrastructure development for intelligent scientists, ultimately transforming the research paradigm in data-driven scientific inquiries.

During the event, notable attendees, including Academician Chang Jin (President of the University of Science and Technology of China), Academician Asao Ming from Zhejiang University, Academician Zhang Tongyi from Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (Guangzhou) and Shanghai University, Academician Xie Yi from the University of Science and Technology of China, and Vice President Academician Yang Jinlong, collectively ignited the “flame of paradigm revolution.”

The conference began with the announcement of 45 new alliance members, followed by Professor Luo Yi from the University of Science and Technology of China presenting the alliance’s action program — the “Declaration of the Intelligent Scientist Ecosystem Alliance.” This alliance aims to establish a national infrastructure for intelligent scientists, providing always-accessible capabilities in scientific cognition, precise experimentation and computation, and data analysis. This initiative seeks to help humanity overcome the individual limitations of physical strength, computational power, intellectual capacity, and disciplinary understanding. Much like how electrical infrastructure allows for immediate access to power, the intelligent scientist infrastructure will serve as a foundational “grid” for new productive forces of intelligence.

Professor Jiang Jun from the University of Science and Technology of China unveiled the “Machine Chemist System 1.2” during the conference. This version integrates a “chemical brain” and includes four major research bases: literature reading, experimental design, robotic operation, and intelligent simulation, covering the full spectrum of scientific research methodologies. He highlighted the latest achievements of the alliance in intelligent research paradigms and foundational construction for intelligent science.

Jiang elaborated that the machine chemist operating system combines cognitive and action intelligence, establishing a data-driven paradigm of “theoretical-practical integration” for scientific research. He also introduced the intelligent scientist platform website, which will serve as the alliance’s data center, providing up-to-date chemical template libraries, command sets, automated calculation templates, and a forum for engagement, creating a vibrant community for AI4S innovation.

Subsequently, attendees engaged in deep discussions on four themes: “Intelligent Scientific Foundations and the Flame of Paradigm Revolution,” “Talent Development in the Era of Data Intelligence,” “Intelligent Foundations Driving New Productive Forces,” and “Standardization and Promotion of Intelligent Scientists.” They collaboratively analyzed the latest advancements and future trends of intelligent technology in chemical synthesis, material innovation, and scientific methodologies, exchanging ideas on the integration of theory and practice as well as strategies for talent development in the data intelligence era.

Shen Yi, Deputy Director of the Frontiers of Science and Basic Research Bureau of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, emphasized that building infrastructure for intelligent scientists is a crucial step towards achieving paradigm transformation. He remarked, “We need to strengthen the application of artificial intelligence across various disciplines, innovate research paradigms, improve research efficiency and quality, and promote significant original outcomes. Additionally, we must enhance talent development and recruitment, unite related strengths both within and outside our institutions, and build an interdisciplinary research team with a spirit of innovation and practical capabilities for AI in Science.”

As airports increasingly streamline traffic, one surprising measure has garnered attention: Dunedin International Airport in New Zealand has implemented a three-minute limit on farewell hugs in its drop-off zone. Passengers wishing for longer goodbyes are encouraged to head to the car park instead. This policy contrasts sharply with Heathrow Airport’s approach, where passengers are welcomed to take as much time as they need for their farewells, as signaled by new depictions in the departures area that promote “unlimited hug time.”

This emphasis on hugging isn’t just about keeping the airport moving; it’s grounded in science. Experts highlight the numerous physical and psychological benefits associated with embraces. “Hugging is a fundamental way we bond socially,” says Professor Robin Dunbar, an evolutionary psychologist from the University of Oxford. He explains that the act of hugging activates a specialized neural system in our skin, triggered by gentle, rhythmic touch. This can lead to the release of endorphins, inducing feelings of calm and relaxation.

Moreover, the positive effects of hugs extend beyond comfort. Professor Michael Banissy, a social neuroscientist, points out that receiving and giving hugs can enhance our immune response. In one notable study from Carnegie Mellon University, researchers found that individuals who received regular hugs were less susceptible to common cold viruses and experienced milder symptoms if they did fall ill. Another study indicated that women who hugged their partners before a stressful experience had lower cortisol levels, a stress hormone.

Banissy emphasizes the relevance of hugs in high-stress environments like airports, where anxiety can run high. “The three-minute guideline is intriguing because the hormonal benefits of hugging can be realized in just a few minutes,” he notes. However, he does caution against the potential stiffness that a time limit might impose, as the context of the touch is crucial. If the hugging experience feels forced or uncomfortable, the emotional and psychological benefits may diminish.

To understand the nuances of hugging, we can categorize different types:

1. **Quick Squeeze**: Commonly known as the “crisscross hug,” where arms intertwine around each other’s shoulders or waists. Studies suggest that hugs lasting between five to ten seconds are optimal for comfort and emotional connection.

2. **Engulfing Hug**: This more intimate embrace offers comfort in challenging times and is typically reserved for deep emotional support.

3. **Bear Hug**: A spontaneous, tight squeeze often exchanged in celebratory contexts, such as reunions or achievements.

4. **Sporty Shoulder Press**: A more casual approach seen in team sports where physical gestures like this enhance team cohesion and performance.

5. **Global Leader Hug**: Politicians hugging can seem awkward under scrutiny, yet research indicates that even brief physical touches can bolster cooperation and trust in professional settings.

6. **Self-Hug**: For those without a companion, self-hugging—placing hands over one’s own heart or belly—can replicate the calming benefits of a hug from another person. Research shows this self-soothing gesture also reduces stress hormone levels.

In light of these insights, experts suggest considering hugs as natural expressions of connection and comfort. So the next time you say goodbye, whether in an airport or elsewhere, remember that a simple embrace carries significant emotional weight—and sometimes, a little extra time can make all the difference.

On October 25, the 2024 World Top Scientists Forum kicked off in Shanghai, alongside the award ceremony for the 2024 World Top Scientists Association. Among the distinguished guests, Jon Kleinberg, a professor of computer science and information science at Cornell University, received the “Intelligent Science or Mathematics Award.” Jeremy Nathans, a professor at Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine and a researcher at the Howard Hughes Medical Institute, was honored with the “Life Sciences or Medicine Award.”

Both of these top scientists were visiting Shanghai for the first time and found themselves in what they described as a city brimming with excitement for scientific innovation. During a media briefing, they repeatedly echoed one word to describe their initial impressions of the city: “passion.”

Since their arrival, Kleinberg and Nathans participated in various science outreach events that sparked discussions across multiple universities, research institutions, and high schools in Shanghai.

“This week has been incredibly enjoyable for us,” Kleinberg shared. He met many colleagues and students during the events, noting the evident enthusiasm for science among attendees. “We not only witnessed people’s passion for science but also learned about the research fields that intrigue the next generation of scientists. It’s been quite rewarding.”

Nathans added, “Shanghai is a highly energetic city. The teachers and students I encountered here are so enthusiastic about science. I can actually feel the energy vibrating in the air.”

What does “passion” mean in the context of scientific innovation? The personal experiences of these two award-winning scientists may provide some insight.

For nearly three decades, Kleinberg has been a leading figure in information technology, focusing on areas such as the information and social structure of the web, social networks, and machine learning. His research crosses over multiple disciplines, including computer science, mathematics, and economics. He has not only tackled significant challenges within these fields but has also facilitated collaboration among researchers, helping to address emerging social issues.

Kleinberg’s drive stems from his enthusiasm for science. “I have a deep interest in computer science, mathematics, sociology, and law,” he explained, leading him to seek connections and collaborations between computer science and other disciplines.

When discussing passion, Nathans referenced another great scientist—Isaac Newton. “Newton saw himself as a child playing on the beach, wanting to find the next beautiful shell after discovering one,” Nathans remarked, emphasizing that scientific research is akin to exploring the ocean of truth.

Nathans himself has made remarkable discoveries, such as identifying the molecular basis for trichromatic vision and mapping out the amino acid sequence of visual proteins. In 1983, as a new graduate student at Stanford University School of Medicine, he successfully cloned the visual protein genes from both cows and humans.

In the 1980s, Nathans elucidated the molecular basis of color blindness, revealing that the arrangement of red and green photopigment genes on chromosomes can lead to abnormal recombinations, causing gene deletions. Collaborating with James Lupski, Nathans identified the pathogenic gene for Stargardt disease, the most common early-onset hereditary macular degeneration. He and his collaborators also demonstrated that genetically modified mice could develop trichromatic vision, where they had previously only recognized two primary colors.

For Nathans, the joy of discovering one beautiful shell after another fuels his scientific curiosity. “Earlier, we visited a high school in Shanghai and had a wonderful time there,” he reflected on his interactions with students. During his acceptance speech, he reiterated the importance of fostering curiosity in children, stating, “Children are natural scientists; they have an innate curiosity about the world.”

On September 10, in Silicon Valley, Taiwan’s National Science and Technology Council (NSTC) held a press conference led by Chairman Wu Cheng-wen. During the event, Wu emphasized the steadfast collaboration between Taiwan and the U.S. government, irrespective of the upcoming American elections. He pointed out that both the Republican and Democratic parties agree on the critical importance of technological cooperation.

As global competition in technology escalates, Taiwan is actively pursuing academic and industrial partnerships around the world, particularly in the semiconductor and artificial intelligence (AI) sectors. A key highlight of the NSTC’s U.S. visit was the signing of a cooperation agreement with Stanford University, which aims to strengthen ties in semiconductor and AI technology.

Before arriving in the U.S., the NSTC delegation visited the Czech Republic and Germany. In Germany, they engaged in extensive discussions with local academia and facilitated TSMC’s investment in the country, which includes equipment procurement, support services, and addressing talent requirements, effectively laying a strong foundation for future semiconductor research and applications.

While in the U.S., the delegation held detailed discussions with the National Science Foundation in both Washington and Silicon Valley. A central topic was TSMC’s investment and operations in Arizona, with plans to begin mass production by the end of next year. This effort is anticipated to boost the development of related industries in the U.S. and further enhance cooperation in semiconductors and technological security.

In addition, Taiwan and the U.S. have made notable progress in collaborating on AI applications and environmental technology. Both parties understand that the future efficiency of electronic products and the widespread integration of AI are crucial for global technological advancement. By partnering with U.S. academic and industrial sectors, Taiwan aims to elevate its role in semiconductor and AI innovation, contributing to global tech progress.

The NSTC’s agreement with Stanford University is specifically tailored to provide Taiwanese scholars and students with opportunities for advanced studies in the U.S., nurturing a new generation of high-tech talent and bolstering Taiwan’s leading position in global technological innovation.

In response to reporters’ questions, Wu reiterated that Taiwan’s collaboration with the U.S. government would not be impacted by the electoral cycle. He stressed a shared vision of technological cooperation and development among both political parties. Wu also highlighted Taiwan’s commitment to increasing investments across various industries, with the goal of transforming the island from a low-wage manufacturing center into a hub for sovereign AI, intending to encourage overseas students to return to Taiwan after their studies.

In an interview, Sai Huazheng fondly reminisces about how his journey to Inner Mongolia University of Science and Technology began with a serendipitous phone call six years ago. “My wife, Fu Rui, and I were still at the Tsinghua University Chemistry lab when we received a call from a recruiter at Inner Mongolia University, inviting us for a discussion,” he recalls.

In 2018, both Sai and Fu were weighing their options. While prestigious research institutions in big cities seemed appealing, they realized that working at Inner Mongolia University could provide them with greater opportunities to make an impact.

Sai, who had earned his Ph.D. in Materials Science two years earlier, recognizes that accepting the job offer from Inner Mongolia marked a pivotal moment in their lives. After making the decision, they traveled to Inner Mongolia for an interview and were welcomed into the faculty. Sai notes, “Before I officially started, my advisor came to the university to discuss my future. He really wanted me to stay in Beijing.”

Reflecting on his transition from Beijing to Inner Mongolia, Sai credits the support from both the university and college for helping him achieve his dreams over the past six years. The fire at Notre-Dame Cathedral in 2019 sparked an idea for him to develop fire-resistant materials. Together with his research team, he extracted silicon and aluminum from coal gangue, a solid waste produced during coal mining, to create new fire-retardant materials.

“The construction of Notre-Dame was primarily wooden. If a fire-resistant coating had been applied to such wooden structures, it could have prevented significant damage,” Sai explains.

As a duo of Ph.D. holders, Sai and Fu established a research group together. In addition to teaching, they worked on green and efficient oil-water separation membrane materials derived from common ingredients found in bubble tea and jelly, offering innovative solutions for addressing global marine oil pollution.

Sai emphasizes the urgency of their research: “With the rapid growth of the petrochemical industry and maritime transport, incidents of oil pollution, including marine oil spills, are increasingly frequent. If oil-water mixtures cannot be effectively separated, it leads not only to resource wastage but also to severe environmental pollution. Membrane separation technology is viewed as an efficient, energy-saving, and cost-effective method for differentiating between oil and water.”

Their growing recognition in the academic sphere has been remarkable—Sai was appointed a professor at 33, while Fu became an associate professor at 34. The couple has also welcomed a new chapter in their family life, with their child now in preschool.

As Sai continues to excel in his field, he recently achieved a significant breakthrough in the area of controlled assembly of sub-nanowires, attracting considerable attention within the academic community.

Sub-nanowires (SNWs) are garnering interest due to their intriguing properties, although creating macroscopic functional materials (like aerogels) from them poses substantial challenges. The conventional methods for producing aerogels are incompatible with the properties of SNWs already reported in literature.

To tackle this issue, Professor Sai proposed a novel approach utilizing a high melting point non-polar solvent—cyclohexane—as a medium for freeze-casting SNW aerogels (SNWAs). The resulting SNWAs not only exhibit a wide range of physical and chemical properties but also hold great potential in photoluminescence applications.

Regarding this complex academic challenge, Sai shares, “Since we made our findings public, we have received ongoing media attention, and you are one of the journalists who have followed our story.”

On October 23, during the 2024 World Science and Technology Development Forum held in Beijing, the theme of “Innovative AI Governance to Build International Trust in Technology Governance” took center stage. At this event, academician Qiao Hong from the Chinese Academy of Sciences and Chairman of the World Robot Organization unveiled the “2024 Outlook on the Top Ten Frontiers of Artificial Intelligence Technologies.” This report includes four common AI technologies, three large-scale pre-training models, two embodied intelligence innovations, and one area of generative AI, aiming to spark both scholarly and public discussion on advancing AI development and its applications.

The report highlights key trends in AI technology such as: the rise of “small data and high-quality data,” “human-AI alignment: Building Trusted AI Systems,” “AI ‘Constitution’: Ensuring Compliance and Safety,” “Explainable Models: Making AI More Transparent and Trustworthy,” “Revolution of Pre-training Models under the Scale Law,” “Omni-modal Large Models: Breaking Data Barriers,” “A New Era of AI-Driven Scientific Research,” “Embodied Cerebellum Models: Providing Real-time Response Capabilities to Robots,” “Entity AI Systems: Empowering the Physical World,” and “World Simulators: Creating Infinite Possibilities in the Digital Realm.”

With regard to human-AI alignment, Qiao emphasized that simply relying on data and algorithms is not sufficient. It is vital to translate human values and ethics into reinforcement learning reward functions that guide models toward behaviors that align with human expectations.

As concerns regarding compliance, safety, and ethical issues associated with current AI systems grow increasingly prominent, establishing a supervisory model framework is essential. This framework aims to set clear standards and guidelines to ensure that all AI systems adhere to established principles during their development and use, thereby mitigating risks from the unregulated usage of AI technologies.

Qiao also discussed the significance of large-scale pre-training models, which, utilizing vast parameters and training data, enhance human-AI interaction and reasoning capabilities, ultimately increasing the variety and richness of tasks that can be accomplished.

In the realm of AI-driven scientific research, advanced models and generative technologies can significantly boost the efficiency of hypothesis generation, experimental design, and data analysis, leading to faster and more accurate research outcomes. This agile research methodology holds the potential to markedly increase the likelihood of discovering new scientific patterns, thereby accelerating the progress of scientific exploration.

The embodied cerebellum model, integral to robotic movement, focuses on addressing the integration of software algorithms with physical spaces and reconciling the trade-off between high-performance singular systems and versatile capabilities, enabling intelligent robotic systems to meet the intricate operational and real-time control demands of the real world.

Humanoid robots represent the pinnacle of entity AI systems, equipped with multimodal perception and understanding abilities that allow for natural interaction with humans. They can also make autonomous decisions and act independently in complex environments, promising wider application in challenging job scenarios in the future.

World simulators enhance model generalization capabilities by integrating data quality, diversity, training strategies, and regularization techniques, offering immersive and high-fidelity experiences through digital interactive engines. These simulators create richer and more diverse digital worlds, applicable in education, entertainment, and various other fields, while also enabling the creation of advanced digital environments.

According to Qiao Hong, AI’s applications span industries from smart manufacturing to smart cities, healthcare, and financial services. Its profound impact presents both challenges and opportunities. Therefore, it’s crucial to contemplate AI’s developmental trajectory, promote technological innovations and industry upgrades, and ensure the sustainable advancement of AI technologies.

In summary, AI’s evolution is accelerating technological progress and social transformation at an unprecedented pace. The fields of common AI technologies, large-scale pre-training models, embodied intelligence, and generative AI are teeming with possibilities and potential. The advancements in these technologies promise to offer more convenient and efficient lifestyles while driving innovation and growth across various sectors.

On October 26, a significant international academic conference titled “New Developments in Nestorian Studies” was held in Turpan, Xinjiang, drawing numerous scholars from around the world.

At the Nestorian monastery site located west of Turpan, Professor Erika Hunter from the University of Cambridge expressed her awe at the abundance of manuscript fragments found there. “This site has such rich documents, and various ethnic groups have lived here. It truly lets us feel the history of Turpan; it’s a unique site that deserves recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage site,” she remarked.

The study of Turpan, a multifaceted discipline that explores the ancient region’s history, culture, art, and social structure, has its roots tracing back to the early 20th century. Western and Eastern explorers uncovered a wealth of precious artifacts and manuscripts in this area, providing invaluable resources for scholars interested in the cultural history of Turpan.

With its rich historical and cultural resources, Turpan offers countless artifacts for academic exploration. The increasing interest from renowned universities, research institutions, and experts around the globe signals that this once “niche” field is gaining traction.

The conference focused on “New Developments in Nestorian Studies,” featuring 56 experts from 47 institutions across nine countries and regions, including Germany, the UK, and Japan. They gathered to share recent archaeological findings from the Nestorian monastery site and to discuss new achievements, directions, and collaborations in the field of international Nestorian studies and Turpan studies.

In recent years, Turpan has conducted archaeological excavations at several ancient cultural sites, including the Yanghai Cemetery, the Gai Cemetery, and the ancient city of Gaochang, and has successfully hosted over ten international academic seminars. Ke Yisel Kyuom, Deputy Secretary of the Turpan Municipal Committee and Mayor, emphasized that the study of Turpan is a cultural hallmark of the region and expressed a commitment to further promoting its significance in the modern era.

Turpan studies, often seen as a sister discipline to Dunhuang studies, are becoming a focus of international attention. Just like Dunhuang studies, they have yielded rich results, attracting scholars from both domestic and international circles.

Professor Erika Hunter affirmed that Turpan is home to many precious historical documents and abundant archaeological sites, describing it as a treasure trove of history. “The study of Turpan is the key to unlocking this treasure,” she added.

Meanwhile, Professor Peter Zimmer from the Brandenburg Academy of Sciences, who has conducted multiple research investigations in Turpan, remarked upon the region’s long history as an international city. “This magical place has preserved numerous valuable documents that bear witness to a time when diverse cultures and religions coexisted here,” he stated, adding that Turpan holds a special place in his heart.

Today, Turpan studies are recognized as a focal point in the international academic community. Scholars globally are engaging in conferences and exchange activities to discuss the latest research findings and trends in Turpan studies, infusing new energy into this field.

The recent conference served as a vital “bridge” for international academic exchange and cooperation. Participants included officials like Party member and Deputy Director of the Xinjiang Cultural Relics Bureau, Dang Zhihao, who noted that this conference marks a significant milestone in the development of Turpan studies and serves as a grand event for international academic exchange in Nestorian studies.

During the conference, experts visited the Nestorian monastery site to observe the latest research developments firsthand. Joint excavations by Sun Yat-sen University and research institutes from Xinjiang in 2021 and 2023 unearthed numerous paper manuscripts of Buddhist texts, Taoist scriptures, and Nestorian documents, written in various languages, including Chinese, Syriac, Uighur, and Sogdian. These findings are regarded as precious samples for Nestorian studies and critical materials for Turpan studies, garnering considerable attention from scholars worldwide.

Liu Wenshuo, a professor at Sun Yat-sen University and project lead for the excavation at the Nestorian monastery site, stated that the rich remains and artifacts found there provide detailed resources for researching Nestorian life in the Middle Ages, the history of Nestorianism, and the cultural exchanges along the Silk Road. He expressed hope for more international experts to join future research efforts.

Since the establishment of the Turpan Studies Institute in August 2005, six international academic conferences have been held, greatly enhancing collaboration between Chinese scholars and their counterparts worldwide in the field of Turpan studies.

On October 18, a new airspace laboratory focused on low-altitude operations was inaugurated in Liangping District, Chongqing. This facility aims to address the unique challenges presented by complex terrains in low-altitude airspace and will serve as a hub for the research and development of spatiotemporal information. It also seeks to establish a platform for cultivating specialized talent and a high-level think tank strategy while driving industrial upgrades and regional development in the low-altitude economy.

This laboratory is a collaborative effort involving Liangping District, the Chongqing Institute of Surveying and Mapping Science and Technology, Wuhan University, and Chongqing Jiaotong University. It represents a significant step forward in enhancing cooperation between academic institutions and research entities, with the goal of fostering technological innovation and industrial growth within the low-altitude economic sector.

The laboratory is focused on rapidly mapping three-dimensional airspace scenarios, designing flight corridors, and developing advanced AI models for airspace management. Its objective is to implement a new digital air traffic control model that facilitates all-weather, full airspace, and high-capacity flight operations. This initiative aims to provide practical solutions for low-altitude economic development not just in Liangping, but across the nation.

As a strategic emerging industry, the low-altitude economy is gaining attention for its expansive development potential and is increasingly seen as a new growth driver for regional economies. The Chongqing Planning and Natural Resources Bureau is responsible for establishing a digital low-altitude foundation in the city, advancing general aviation landing site construction, and implementing various applications for government and industry scenarios. Both Wuhan University and Chongqing Jiaotong University have been instrumental in research and technological advancements in transportation engineering, accumulating valuable expertise in areas such as green aviation, smart cities, intelligent transportation, and the low-altitude economy.

Liangping District is seizing the strategic opportunity to promote the low-altitude economy and is committed to building a “nationally influential low-altitude industrial base.” The effort focuses on developing four key areas—a low-altitude manufacturing zone, a comprehensive service area, a pioneering application zone, and a vibrant cultural tourism area—along with a regional general aviation logistics hub. This comprehensive approach aims to create an integrated low-altitude industrial ecosystem and establish Liangping as the “Low-Altitude City of the West.”

The wave of large artificial intelligence models is sweeping across the globe, even sparking a “hundred model battle” in China. As Shanghai seizes the opportunity for industrial transformation and upgrading, it is showcasing impressive competitiveness thanks to its comprehensive AI industrial chain and innovative ecosystem. What role can Pudong, as a leading area in socialist modernization, play in this dynamic landscape?

In the urban sub-center of Zhangjiang Science City in Pudong, the “Model Community,” a large ecosystem cluster with a total construction area exceeding 200,000 square meters, has risen. Built on over 30 years of industrial foundation in Zhangjiang, this community aims to create a centralized model industrial development ecosystem and establish a new high ground for AI.

Yin Yian Technology, which is committed to building a leading digital R&D collaboration platform for biomedicine in China, is one of the key occupants of the “Model Community.” CTO Shi Huihui attributes their choice of location to three main factors: the platform effect of gathering upstream and downstream industries, supportive policies for startups, and the dense cluster of innovative pharmaceutical companies in Zhangjiang, which “brings us closer to our customers and industry.”

Currently, nearly 40 upstream and downstream ecosystem companies, such as Xiaodu Technology, Yanchip Intelligence, Weili Technology, and Light Polarization, have officially settled in the “Model Community.” These companies span various fields within the large model industry, including foundational technologies, application research and development, scenario design, and computational support, forming a closed-loop research and application ecosystem. The collaborative spirit among companies in the community has fostered an environment where they can efficiently connect their respective segments of the industry.

“The initial intention behind establishing the ‘Model Community’ is truly reflected in the companies that have joined us. We have genuinely found our upstream and downstream partners here, and even invited collaborators to join us,” Shi Huihui shared.

As industries recognize the transformative potential of large models, the “Model Community” has become increasingly known as a high-density innovation incubator. However, is physical space necessary for the development of models that rely on data, computational power, and algorithms?

Amid the ongoing debates, the “Model Community” has established a clear vision for itself. As a vital part of Pudong’s AI industrial ecosystem, the community leverages Zhangjiang Science City’s existing industrial foundation to create support platforms for computational power, data resources, and algorithm deployment. “The ‘Model Community’ serves as a critical space and ecosystem for driving AI industry upgrades through large models. We emphasize the industrial driving force and the realization of diverse application scenarios,” stated Yuan Tao, Secretary of the Party Committee and Chairman of Shanghai Zhangjiang (Group) Co., Ltd.

A physical space can effectively attract companies and foster collaboration. Guan Fenghua, Deputy General Manager of Shanghai Zhangjiang Science Gate Technology Development Co., Ltd., explained, “First, the ‘Model Community’ serves as a convenient space for large model companies to settle and communicate. Here, the exchange of ideas is more accessible and prolific, leading to new research outcomes and facilitating spontaneous business growth. Secondly, we hope the ‘Model Community’ will act as a bridge and link, effectively connecting upstream application scenarios, mid-tier research and development, and downstream foundational technology support. Additionally, Zhangjiang will leverage existing large enterprise innovation centers to help niche model companies swiftly build their pathways and provide better commercialization channels for smoother access to application scenarios.”

This industrial positioning has also gained recognition from academia. Jin Yaohui, Chief Engineer of the AI Research Institute at Shanghai Jiao Tong University, emphasized the necessity of a physical community. “Offline spaces provide venues for personal interaction. Industrial demand requires broader communication, blending virtual and physical elements, and facilitating connections between supply and demand.”

As Pudong becomes China’s first innovation application pilot area for artificial intelligence, it showcases a trend of accelerating the integration of AI with economic and social development. Not only does the Zhangjiang Science City boast one of the country’s most comprehensive AI industrial ecosystems, but it is also one of the earliest regions to invest in AI industry development. Jin Yaohui believes Pudong has identified a suitable path for its growth, and creating such a community that combines virtual and physical elements aims to offer services to various industries. “The key to development is not merely copying others but effectively integrating demand, scenarios, and supply capabilities within the community. The discussion around whether this community should be government-led, industry-driven, or opened up for collaborative efforts is crucial,” he concluded.

The 16th BRICS Summit will take place from October 22 to 24 in Kazan, Russia. This marks the first summit since the expansion of the BRICS group, and there is keen interest in how these nations will contribute to promoting a more equitable and orderly multipolar world, as well as inclusive economic globalization in the context of a turbulent international landscape. In a recent exclusive interview with the Global Times, Kirill Babaev, Director of the Institute of China and Modern Asia at the Russian Academy of Sciences, shared his insights on the evolution of BRICS.

Babaev stated that BRICS has transformed from its original conception into a cross-continental network of cooperation, representing a new vision for global governance. He emphasized that the principles underpinning BRICS cooperation—mutual respect, inclusivity, fairness, and a non-dominance by any single nation—are in line with the aspirations of most countries and their populations. “BRICS embodies the hope for a fair global economic system free from sanctions and protectionism, which are at risk in today’s world,” Babaev remarked. “I sincerely hope that BRICS cooperation can become the cornerstone of a new type of international relations, not only in economic matters but also in global security.”

As Babaev pointed out, the principles and achievements of BRICS cooperation are proving to be highly attractive. During last year’s 15th BRICS leaders’ summit held in Johannesburg, South Africa, the BRICS family expanded its membership.

Data shows that this “Big BRICS” now accounts for 30% of the world’s land area, 45% of the global population, and nearly 20% of world trade, while oil production and reserves encompass about 40% of the global energy landscape. The total GDP, measured by purchasing power parity, has surpassed that of the G7 countries. Analysts view this expansion as a demonstration of the BRICS nations’ determination to unite and collaborate with the broader developing world, aligning with the international community’s expectations and the interests of emerging markets and developing countries.

Babaev explained that the significance of the BRICS mechanism lies in its capacity to unite countries with differing interests, offering each member a platform for negotiation and fostering cooperation. “If we want to achieve common goals, we need to reach consensus, and that is exactly what BRICS facilitates. Even when consensus is challenging on certain issues, BRICS has flexible mechanisms to explore alternative commonalities.” He believes that face-to-face dialogue among leaders in the same room tends to yield more effective problem-solving than distance communication.

“An increasing number of people are realizing that in the current West-dominated global economic framework, BRICS presents a viable alternative,” Babaev said. He noted that BRICS has proven to be an effective platform for collaborative projects in various sectors including technology, trade, transportation, and education, offering opportunities rather than restrictions. He highlighted that, unlike some alliances led by Western nations, BRICS lacks a single leader and emphasizes mutual benefit. “BRICS was formed not to confront, but to avoid confrontation.”

Following its first expansion, a growing number of countries are eager to engage with BRICS. Recently, nations from the Global South, including Malaysia, Sri Lanka, and Azerbaijan, have publicly expressed their interest in joining the BRICS cooperation mechanism.

This year marks the beginning of “Big BRICS cooperation,” and it is anticipated that BRICS nations will deepen their practical collaboration in Kazan. Babaev believes that trade and finance are not only critical issues for BRICS but also central to the global economy, and the member states need to continue promoting free trade. He added that as the rotating chair of BRICS this year, Russia may invite discussions and cooperation on topics such as payment systems, globalization and free trade, and international logistics. Additionally, collaborations in the technological sector, including artificial intelligence, could be on the agenda.