TIANJIN, May 16 (Xinhua) -- A major conference for artificial intelligence (AI) researchers, industry leaders and policymakers highlighted opportunities in the sector and the need for better governance.

The third World Intelligence Congress, a four-day conference held in north China's Tianjin Municipality, gathered more than 1,400 participants from over 40 countries and regions, according to the organizer.

It included forums, exhibitions, and competitions for unmanned cars and drones. The Tianjin municipal government, Ministry of Science and Technology (MOST), and National Development and Reform Commission (NDRC), and are among the event organizers.

AI is projected to drive global GDP gains of over 15.7 trillion U.S. dollars by 2030, said Lin Nianxiu, deputy director of NDRC, at the opening ceremony. "AI changes the future and creates it at the same time."

"China will further strengthen intellectual property protection, support enterprises to join global AI innovation network, and vigorously promote the flow of talent and technology funds."

Over the years, China has applied AI in multiple fields including city planning, smart transport, social governance, health, agriculture, and national security, but the applications also pose new challenges.

Wang Zhigang, head of the MOST, said the ministry was drafting a governance code for AI, expected to be released soon.

"China will enhance international cooperation on AI governance such as AI laws and regulations, and international rules to jointly deal with common challenges," Wang said.