acatech and the MÜNCHNER KREIS engaged in dialogue with the World Internet Conference, focusing on areas of collaboration

Munich, 04 July 2025

On 4 July 2025, acatech (the National Academy of Science and Engineering) and the MÜNCHNER KREIS welcomed experts from the World Internet Conference (WIC) to a think tank workshop in Munich. As well as getting to know each other, the participants explored topics of mutual interest and potential areas of cooperation.

The WIC is an internationally networked think tank based in China which is supported by numerous global companies and operates independently of government agencies. With its open, cross-thematic approach, the WIC brings together experts from science, business, politics, and civil society, focusing particularly on digital transformation, artificial intelligence, and global governance issues.

During the dialogue, representatives of the WIC, acatech and the MÜNCHNER KREIS presented their respective strategies, working groups and initiatives, highlighting specific networking opportunities.

A central topic was the WIC Think Tank Cooperation Programme, which already comprises over 60 partner institutions from around the world. Other formats presented included a planned Digital Academy, the WIC Summit from 6–9 November 2025 in Wuzhen, and joint studies and reports, including those on the safe and responsible development of AI.

Several concrete areas of cooperation were identified by both sides, including participation in international conferences and reports, setting up joint working groups (e.g. on ‘Responsible AI’), exchange formats as part of the Digital Academy and intensifying the strategic dialogue between European and Asian stakeholders.

The meeting was characterised by open, solution-oriented discussions. Both acatech and the MÜNCHNER KREIS emphasised the great potential for fruitful cooperation, viewing the presented approaches as a valuable addition to existing international activities.