Gabriel Ameh
Chinese President Xi Jinping has unveiled a comprehensive roadmap for global cooperation on artificial intelligence (AI), proposing four guiding principles for international AI governance and announcing a series of initiatives aimed at helping developing countries benefit from the rapidly evolving technology.
Speaking at the opening of the World Artificial Intelligence Conference (WAIC) 2026 in Shanghai, Xi said artificial intelligence is transforming economies and societies at an unprecedented pace, making international cooperation essential to maximize its benefits while addressing emerging risks.
He urged governments, technology companies, researchers and international organisations to work together to ensure AI promotes sustainable development, shared prosperity and global security rather than deepening inequality or creating new global divisions.
Four Principles for Global AI Governance
At the heart of Xi’s address was a proposal outlining four principles to guide the future development and governance of artificial intelligence worldwide.
The first principle advocates openness and mutually beneficial cooperation, encouraging countries to strengthen collaboration in AI research, innovation and industrial development while sharing knowledge and expanding access to AI technologies across key sectors.
The second principle focuses on AI safety and effective regulation. Xi emphasized the need for stronger legal frameworks, robust oversight mechanisms and improved risk management to prevent misuse of AI and ensure the technology remains under human control. He also cautioned against using national security concerns as a basis for unnecessarily restricting international AI cooperation.
His third principle promotes inclusiveness and respect for cultural diversity, stressing that AI should encourage dialogue among nations while respecting different cultures, traditions and values.
The fourth principle calls for stronger multilateral cooperation, with Xi reaffirming support for the United Nations as the primary platform for developing international AI standards, governance frameworks and regulatory mechanisms. He also advocated greater support for developing countries to bridge widening AI and digital technology gaps.
China Announces New AI Capacity-Building Initiatives
As part of China’s contribution to global AI development, Xi announced that the country will provide 5,000 training and seminar opportunities for participants from developing nations over the next five years.
He also revealed plans to establish AI Application Cooperation Centres in partnership with several regional organisations, including the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), the African Union (AU), the League of Arab States, the Community of Latin American and Caribbean States (CELAC), BRICS and the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO).
In another major initiative, Xi disclosed that China will extend access to its MAZU AI-powered Meteorological Warning System to 30 countries, helping strengthen disaster preparedness and early warning capabilities.
China Highlights Domestic AI Progress
Xi said China’s AI sector has become a significant driver of economic growth, with the country’s core smart economy industries now valued at more than one trillion yuan.
He noted that AI technologies are increasingly being integrated into manufacturing, public services and everyday life, while China continues to strengthen legal, ethical and regulatory safeguards to ensure responsible AI development.
The Chinese leader also highlighted Beijing’s growing role in shaping international AI governance through initiatives such as the Global AI Governance Initiative, support for a United Nations resolution on AI capacity building, and the establishment of the World Artificial Intelligence Cooperation Organization (WAICO), headquartered in Shanghai.
According to Xi, WAICO will serve as a global platform for promoting inclusive AI development, expanding international cooperation and supporting the technological advancement of developing countries.
Concluding his remarks, Xi called for stronger global partnerships to ensure artificial intelligence advances innovation, peace and human well-being, stressing that the future of AI should be built on cooperation, shared responsibility and collective progress.
