Chinese President Xi Jinping has unveiled China’s vision for a new global artificial intelligence (AI) framework during the World Artificial Intelligence Conference (WAIC) 2026 in Shanghai. In his speech, Xi emphasized open-source AI, international cooperation, AI safety, and stronger support for developing countries, positioning China as a leading force in shaping the future of global AI governance.
Speaking at the opening ceremony of the World Artificial Intelligence Conference (WAIC) in Shanghai, Chinese President Xi Jinping presented China’s plan to play a leading role in global AI development and governance. He encouraged countries to embrace open-source AI technologies and work together to ensure that artificial intelligence benefits everyone, especially developing nations.
During his WAIC keynote speech, President Xi Jinping said:
“Countries should seize the rare and historic opportunity presented by open-source AI and ensure that artificial intelligence benefits all humanity.”
Xi said AI represents a historic technological opportunity, comparing its importance to the invention of the steam engine and electricity. He warned that unequal access to AI could create new global inequalities and stressed that developing countries should receive technology, training, and resources to build their own AI capabilities.
Xi also stressed the importance of AI safety, stating that: “AI systems must remain under human control, and countries should establish early-warning and emergency-response mechanisms to manage AI risks.”
China also introduced the World AI Cooperation Organisation (WAICO), which has already attracted 29 member countries. According to Xi, the organization will promote international AI cooperation, develop common AI standards, and strengthen partnerships with BRICS, ASEAN, Latin American, and African countries.
Xi also made his strongest comments yet on AI safety. He called for AI systems to remain under human control and urged countries to establish early-warning systems and emergency response mechanisms to reduce risks from advanced AI technologies. He warned against scenarios where autonomous AI systems could operate beyond human oversight.
The announcement comes as Chinese AI companies continue to narrow the technology gap with major U.S. firms such as OpenAI and Anthropic. The conference also takes place ahead of planned AI discussions between China and the United States, highlighting growing competition over global AI leadership and future international AI regulations.
Xi also stressed the importance of AI safety, stating that: “AI systems must remain under human control, and countries should establish early-warning and emergency-response mechanisms to manage AI risks.”
Commenting on China’s AI ambitions, George Chen, Chair in Digital Practice at The Asia Group, said:
“Xi’s message is clear: China is not going to follow anyone on both AI technology and standards. Instead, China is going to lead the world in both aspects.”
