Xi calls for equitable global AI governance, unveils new cooperation body

What the report says

The Independent Uganda, citing Xinhua, reported that Chinese President Xi Jinping announced the creation of the World Artificial Intelligence Cooperation Organization (WAICO) during the opening of the 2026 World AI Conference and High-Level Meeting on Global AI Governance in Shanghai. Xi used the Friday address to urge countries to work toward a fairer international framework for managing artificial intelligence and said AI should be developed in ways that support shared prosperity and security.

According to the report, Xi framed AI as a rapidly advancing technology that raises questions about human-machine relations, algorithmic decision-making, safety, ethics and unequal access. He called for openness, innovation, risk awareness, inclusiveness and stronger global coordination, while saying the United Nations should have an important role in aligning development strategies, governance rules and technical standards.

The article said 29 countries signed the agreement establishing WAICO as founding members. Xi described the new body as part of China’s response to calls from the Global South for broader cooperation on AI development and governance. He also pledged that China would offer 5,000 AI training and seminar opportunities for developing countries over the next five years, develop AI application cooperation centers with regional and international blocs, and make its MAZU AI-powered meteorological warning system available to 30 countries.

The report placed the announcement in the context of China’s growing AI sector, citing 2025 figures of more than 1.2 trillion yuan in core AI industry value and over 6,200 AI enterprises. The Shanghai conference, held under the theme “AI Partnership for a Brighter Future,” included more than 140 forums and speeches by leaders from Kazakhstan, Cambodia, Thailand and the United Nations.