China’s Vision for Global AI Cooperation Emerges at Major Conference
During the opening ceremony of the 2026 World AI Conference and High-Level Meeting on Global AI Governance in Shanghai, Chinese President Xi Jinping emphasized the necessity of international collaboration on artificial intelligence (AI). He urged countries to ensure that this transformative technology serves the greater good, fosters shared prosperity, and remains firmly under human oversight amid escalating competition for AI supremacy.
Human-Centered AI Development and Fair Governance Frameworks
President Xi advocated for a human-centered approach to AI development, stressing the importance of establishing a fair international governance framework. He highlighted the vital role of cooperation in making AI a cornerstone of shared progress and security across nations, while endorsing the creation of a just and equitable system for global AI governance.
Historical Perspective and Strategic Priorities
Reflecting on the inception of AI, President Xi noted that the concept originated 70 years ago at the Dartmouth Workshop in New Hampshire, USA, which ignited the aspirations of countless scientists in the field. Under China’s 15th Five-Year Plan, AI has become a strategic priority, bolstered by the AI+ initiative and the development of an ecosystem that has propelled China’s smart economy to exceed 1 trillion yuan in value.
Guiding Principles for Global AI Development
During his address, President Xi outlined four fundamental principles that should steer global AI initiatives. The first focuses on openness and collaboration, suggesting a shift from digital to physical realms where AI can act as a catalyst for economic transformation. He called for harnessing this historic moment by promoting open-source resources and technological innovation to upgrade traditional industries and foster emerging ones.
Ensuring Safety and Overseeing AI
The call for safety in AI deployment underscored the need for human oversight. President Xi articulated that AI must be a trusted tool, highlighting the importance of developing legislative and regulatory measures to mitigate inherent risks. He cautioned against any unilateral national security measures that prioritize a single country’s interests over a collaborative global approach.
Cultural Inclusivity and Mutual Understanding
In light of differing cultural perspectives, President Xi stressed the necessity of promoting inclusivity and mutual understanding through AI advancements. He asserted that AI’s development should enhance rather than undermine the unique attributes of various civilizations, facilitating tolerance and cooperation among nations.
The Role of International Cooperation in AI Governance
President Xi concluded that fostering international cooperation is fundamental to effective AI governance. He called for robust multilateralism and the active participation of the United Nations, advocating for synchronized strategies and standards in AI development to close the global digital divide. His initiatives seek not only to prevent new injustices but also to fortify capacity building in developing regions.
Commitment to Supporting Emerging Markets
In a bid to enhance global AI capabilities, President Xi announced several initiatives aimed at supporting emerging economies. Over the next five years, China plans to provide 5,000 AI training opportunities, establish international cooperation centers with various regional organizations, and implement AI-powered weather warning systems to bolster global security.
Emphasizing Responsible AI Governance
Wrapping up his speech, President Xi invoked an ancient Chinese saying to highlight the importance of adapting to change through responsible governance. He reiterated that as AI technology evolves rapidly, it is imperative for governments to ensure its positive impact on humanity while enhancing oversight to curtail potential misuse. With a commitment to openness and proactive measures, China looks forward to collaborating with the international community to harness the transformative potential of AI for a brighter future.
