China's plan for artificial intelligence (AI) development, issued by the State Council Thursday, is a major step for carrying out the innovation-driven development strategy and making the country a global leader in science and technology, said Wang Zhigang, vice minister of science and technology. Since the concept of AI was first proposed in 1956, it has been evolving rapidly with the development of the Internet, big data, super computers and neuroscience, ushering in "the new generation of AI," said Wang. "The new generation of AI" features deep learning, integration of multiple disciplines, human-machine collaboration and automatic operation, and is making various social and economic sectors smarter, said Wang. As a trigger for a new round of industrial reform, AI has been used by many countries to enhance international competitiveness and national security. However, China's move to propel AI development is not aimed at challenging the international status of certain countries, said Li Meng, another vice minister of science and technology. "The plan is based on our judgement and vision for the current and future development of Chinese science and technology, and it meets the demands of social and economic development," said Li.