Xi Calls for Global AI Cooperation, Opposes Security Overreach

Chinese President Xi Jinping called for global cooperation in the development and governance of artificial intelligence on Friday, stating that AI should not be dominated by any single nation. Speaking at the World Artificial Intelligence Conference in Shanghai, Xi emphasized that AI development should be a "symphony of global cooperation" rather than a "solo performance." He reiterated China's objections to what he described as the "overstretching" of national security concerns, which he believes hinders equitable progress. American-led restrictions have previously blocked China's access to advanced technologies, intensifying the economic rivalry between the two countries.

Xi also stated that nations should collectively oppose the practice of prioritizing one country's security over others in the realm of artificial intelligence. He announced that China will expand AI cooperation with various international bodies, including the Association of Southeast Asian Nations, the League of Arab States, the African Union, the Community of Latin American and Caribbean States, the Shanghai Cooperation Organization, and BRICS countries. As part of this initiative, China will offer access to a Chinese-developed AI meteorological tool for early warning systems to 30 countries.

Furthermore, Xi pledged that China will provide 5,000 AI training opportunities to developing countries over the next five years. He suggested that closer partnerships are essential to prevent "historical injustice in AI." The conference also saw the signing of an agreement by 29 countries, including Pakistan, Russia, and Kazakhstan, to establish a World Artificial Intelligence Network, which is viewed as a response to U.S. initiatives in AI. Attendees at the conference included leaders from Kazakhstan, Cambodia, Thailand, and United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres.