AI should not be a 'solo performance' but 'symphony of global collaboration' : Xi Jinping
Chinese President Xi Jinping advocated for global collaboration in AI development during the 2026 World Artificial Intelligence Conference in Shanghai. China announced plans to support developing nations with 5,000 research projects and the establishment of a new intergovernmental body, WAICO.
Why it matters
This signals China's intent to position itself as a global leader and standard-setter in AI, particularly among developing nations.
Chinese President Xi Jinping on Friday (July 17, 2026) said the development of AI should not be a "solo performance" by one country, but a "symphony of global collaboration."
Mr. Xi made these remarks while addressing the opening of the 2026 World Artificial Intelligence Conference (WAIC), China's largest annual AI industry event, in Shanghai.
"With AI advancing at a staggering speed, we must ensure its development is positive, for the good and for humanity," he said.
It must be guided with human wisdom and international consensus, he said.
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