Language

China seeks leading role in global AI development, Xi Jinping says

By Sohrab Sarwari

Jul 17, 2026 - 11:28

Views: 7

KABUL (Pajhwok): Chinese President Xi Jinping has said that China will play a leading role in shaping the emerging global order in artificial intelligence (AI), while supporting the wider adoption of open-source technologies.

Xi made the remarks at the opening ceremony of the World Artificial Intelligence Conference in Shanghai, where he described China as a key force in advancing the future development of AI.

According to Reuters, Xi on Friday called on countries to seize opportunities created by open-source AI development and said China would support developing nations in strengthening their AI capabilities.

Xi described artificial intelligence as a technological milestone comparable to the invention of the steam engine and electricity.

He said Beijing was prepared to share its technology and expertise with countries in the Global South and contribute to the creation of international AI standards.

The Chinese leader also announced the establishment of the World AI Cooperation Organization (WAICO), comprising 29 member countries, describing it as an important step toward promoting global cooperation in artificial intelligence.

Xi stressed that AI systems must remain under human oversight and urged countries to develop early-warning systems and emergency response mechanisms to address potential risks linked to the technology.

The World Artificial Intelligence Conference is being held in Shanghai from July 17 to 20. UN Secretary-General António Guterres, Kazakhstan’s President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, and Thailand’s Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul are among the participants attending the event.

sa