John Hoffman, CEO of GSMA Ltd., speaks during a forum on the theme of "Computing Power Network: Smarter Network for a Smarter World" during the Mobile World Congress 2024 in Barcelona, Spain, Feb. 27, 2024. (Xinhua/Gao Jing)

Granryd spoke highly of China's contribution to 5G deployment and its active investment in developing new technologies such as AI and connectivity, which play a crucial role in fostering the next generation of digital innovation. 

Executives from GSMA, an international mobile operator association, have called for sustained global cooperation to boost technological progress in the mobile industry.

They made the remarks at the Mobile World Congress (MWC) that closed on Thursday. GSMA is the organizer of the event.

"We're witnessing standalone 5G and the imminent arrival of 5G advanced, alongside artificial intelligence (AI) coupled with robust connectivity," said Mats Granryd, GSMA's director general.

With 60 percent of the participants coming from other industries including aviation, automotive, healthcare and manufacturing, Granryd said that the unique aspect of this year's congress lies in everyone's efforts to boost sales by applying relevant technologies in their products.

About 300 Chinese companies participated in this year's MWC, including three Chinese mobile giants: China Mobile, China Telecom and Huawei.

People visit the Mobile World Congress (MWC) 2024 in Barcelona, Spain, Feb. 28, 2024. The 2024 edition of MWC concluded on Thursday. (Xinhua/Gao Jing)

Granryd spoke highly of China's contribution to 5G deployment and its active investment in developing new technologies such as AI and connectivity, which play a crucial role in fostering the next generation of digital innovation.

"I know how much effort, money and talent that China is pouring into new technology, into AI, into connectivity that's going to really bear fruit in the future," he said.

Regarding global cooperation in the era of AI, Granryd said MWC is a platform where telecoms and tech firms from around the world gather to showcase innovations, establish connections and expand businesses.

Granryd used a light-hearted tone to describe the necessity of collaboration: "It's sort of no fun to roll with yourself. You have to roam with someone else. That's where partnership comes into force."

People visit the Mobile World Congress (MWC) 2024 in Barcelona, Spain, Feb. 29, 2024. (Xinhua/Gao Jing)

He also called for the elimination of the digital divide, stressing the importance of leaving no one behind as humanity enters the AI era. "We want to have a world that is inclusive and where everyone has the same technological opportunities."

Lara Dewar, GSMA's chief marketing officer, emphasized the congress's evolution from its focus on mobile connectivity to encompassing various digital domains.

From GSMA's perspective, Dewar said technology harmonization is important and it is essential that standards are agreed upon, particularly on technologies like AI where there is so much opportunity to benefit people and the planet.

"We can all get together because we have these spontaneous, beautiful conversations when we are all together," Dewar said. "(It's) super important that China is represented."

People visit the Mobile World Congress (MWC) 2024 in Barcelona, Spain, Feb. 28, 2024. (Xinhua/Gao Jing)