Xi Calls for Shared AI Rules as China Expands Global Role

Chinese President Xi Jinping has called for artificial intelligence to be developed and governed through international cooperation, while criticising countries that restrict access to technology in the name of national security.

Speaking at the opening of the World Artificial Intelligence Conference (WAIC) in Shanghai on Friday July 17, Xi said AI shouldn’t be controlled by any single country. Instead, he argued that nations should work together to guide its development, manage its risks and prevent poorer countries from being left behind.

“The development of artificial intelligence should not be a solo performance by any single country but rather a symphony of global cooperation,” Xi said.

His speech brought together two parts of China’s growing AI strategy. Beijing wants to present itself as a partner for countries seeking affordable technology and technical support. At the same time, it’s pushing for a greater role in deciding the international rules that will govern AI.

Xi Criticises Restrictions on AI Technology

Xi used the speech to repeat China’s opposition to technology restrictions based on national security concerns.

The United States has introduced a series of export controls designed to limit China’s access to advanced semiconductors and other technologies used to develop powerful AI systems. Washington has argued that these measures are necessary to protect national security.

Xi didn’t name the US directly. However, he warned against “overstretching the concept of national security” and placing one country’s security interests above those of others.

The comments reflect a longstanding dispute between the world’s two largest economies. China argues that US restrictions are limiting fair access to advanced technology. The US, meanwhile, has raised concerns about the security, economic and military implications of China’s growing AI capabilities.

Xi framed broader access to AI as an international development issue. He warned that unequal access could create “new historical injustices” by allowing a small group of countries and companies to control the technology while others remain dependent on them.

China Promises More AI Support for Developing Countries

China plans to expand AI cooperation with several international groups, including the Association of Southeast Asian Nations, the African Union, the League of Arab States and BRICS.

Xi said China would provide 5,000 AI training opportunities to developing countries over the next five years. It will also give 30 countries access to a Chinese-developed meteorological AI tool designed to support weather forecasting and early-warning systems.

The country also plans to establish AI cooperation centres with partners across Asia, Africa and Latin America.

These commitments support China’s effort to position itself as a technology partner for the Global South. Many developing countries want access to AI but face high infrastructure costs, limited technical skills and dependence on foreign platforms.

China’s offer combines training, practical tools and access to its growing technology ecosystem. It also gives Beijing an opportunity to build closer relationships with countries that want a stronger voice in international AI governance.

New Organisation Will Focus on Global AI Governance

Xi’s speech followed the launch of the World Artificial Intelligence Cooperation Organization, or WAICO.

Representatives from 29 countries signed an agreement to establish the new intergovernmental body on Thursday July 16. China says the Shanghai-based organisation will promote international AI cooperation and give developing nations a larger role in shaping governance.

Xi described its creation as a milestone in the development of global AI.

The organisation is also being viewed as a possible counterpart to Pax Silica, a US-led initiative focused on securing AI technology and critical mineral supply chains. Pax Silica has brought together 35 countries, including the UK, Japan, India, Australia and the Philippines.

Kazakhstan is currently the only country reported to have joined both initiatives.

The limited overlap shows how separate international AI partnerships are beginning to form around China and the US. However, Xi presented WAICO as a cooperative institution rather than a political bloc, emphasising shared access, safety and development throughout his speech.

Xi Calls for Stronger AI Safety Measures

Alongside access and cooperation, Xi also called for stronger safeguards around advanced AI systems.

He said AI should remain under human control and urged countries to create early-warning and emergency-response systems for potential risks. He also warned about autonomous systems that could evade human oversight or behave in ways their developers couldn’t control.

The comments were Xi’s most detailed public remarks on AI safety so far.

They also added another layer to China’s governance message. Beijing isn’t only arguing that AI should be more widely available. It’s also calling for international mechanisms that can respond when systems fail or create risks across borders.

United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres attended the opening ceremony alongside national leaders, including Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev and Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul.

The conference runs until Monday July 20 and brings together more than 1,100 companies and 1,400 guests, according to Chinese state media.

Xi’s speech placed cooperation at the centre of China’s public message. But it also made Beijing’s wider ambition clear. China doesn’t intend to remain outside the institutions and partnerships shaping the next stage of AI development. It wants to help build them, lead them and influence the rules they eventually produce.