BAI Explores Cooperation with United Nations University Institute in Macau

During its recent visit to the Greater Bay Area, Blockchain Alliance International met with representatives of the United Nations University Institute in Macau (UNU Macau) to discuss opportunities for closer cooperation in Artificial Intelligence, emerging technologies and sustainable development. BAI Executive President Alexandru Cujba exchanged views with Dr. David Daou, Scientist at UNU Macau, on the rapidly evolving AI landscape and the growing importance of connecting technological innovation with research, policy, capacity-building and the Sustainable Development Goals.

UNU Macau is the United Nations University’s specialized institute working at the intersection of digital technologies and sustainable development. Its research and programmes address areas including responsible Artificial Intelligence, digital transformation and the social and policy implications of emerging technologies. The discussion demonstrated considerable convergence with BAI’s work to promote responsible and inclusive applications of AI and other emerging technologies, particularly through partnerships involving the United Nations, governments, academia, the private sector and civil society.

Particular interest was given to the development of agentic AI and responsible AI agents, an area increasingly relevant to BAI’s activities. Recent UNU Macau research examines not only the capabilities of AI agents but also the technical and governance architecture required to make their operation more reliable, transparent and accountable. This approach closely complements BAI’s interest in exploring practical AI agents for SMEs, public institutions and other development applications, while ensuring appropriate human oversight, security and responsible governance.

The meeting also provided an opportunity to discuss the forthcoming UNU Macau AI Conference 2026, to be held on 25-26 November under the theme “AI × Education: AI for Learning, Learning for AI.” BAI expressed its interest in maintaining the dialogue with UNU Macau and exploring opportunities for future cooperation, including research and knowledge exchange, international conferences, capacity-building and initiatives connecting responsible AI innovation with sustainable development. BAI looks forward to strengthening this relationship and identifying practical areas in which the complementary networks and expertise of the two organizations can contribute to broader international cooperation on AI for sustainable development.