In a major diplomatic move, Li Qiang has proposed the creation of a global organization for Artificial Intelligence Cooperation. Speaking at the World Artificial Intelligence Conference (WAIC) in Shanghai, Li urged countries to engage in more dialogue and develop a framework to regulate the advancement of technology.
Li emphasized that AI development should prioritize people and benefit humanity as a whole. He emphasized the critical need to establish global norms and standards in this field. Additionally, the current Premier of China emphasized the need to balance innovation with security, suggesting that the world should cooperate rather than confront when addressing AI-related issues.
The motion was made as countries around the world are eager to regulate and harness artificial intelligence. China aims to establish itself as a key player in AI development, alongside United States and European Union. Meanwhile, growing global concerns about data privacy, as well as warnings about misinformation and bias perpetuated by AI, continue to increase.
Beijing's desire to take center stage in shaping the AI agenda in the international scenario is quite clear. This agency would provide an environment for cooperation in research, safety standards, ethics, and applications of AI technologies.
While Li Qiang did not elaborate on the proposed body's structure or governance, he mentioned that it would be open, inclusive, and multilateral in nature.
His proposal also seems to be a broad criticism of initiatives led by Western countries regarding artificial intelligence. United States, United Kingdom, and European Union have already established frameworks for AI safety and governance. However, these initiatives and summits often restrict or exclude Chinese participation. Premier Li's speech emphasizes the importance of equal standing and mutual respect among nations.
China has been making headway with its own set of laws for AI. In 2023, it enacted the world's first nationwide set of generative AI regulations. The country has undergone legitimacy checks on deepfakes, algorithmic recommendations, and data usage. Analysts consider Li's proposal to be both a diplomatic overture and a strategic bid to influence the global rules before they are defined elsewhere.
Some of the industry leaders present at the WAIC welcomed the idea of stronger international cooperation. Executives from Chinese tech giants Huawei, Tencent, Baidu, and others expressed support for finding common ground in response to Li's statement. A Baidu spokesperson said, AI is too important to be left fragmented.
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Trust levels between China and the West remain low, particularly in the areas of technology and cybersecurity. Many governments are reluctant to engage in initiatives led by China due to concerns about surveillance and control.
Premier Li's statement reflects a growing consensus that AI cannot be effectively managed by countries acting alone. As AI systems become more powerful and globalized, the lack of common norms could lead to increased competition, instability, and negative consequences.
This year, WAIC 2025, themed ‘Governing Intelligence, Sharing Future’, has brought together representatives from over 50 countries. Throughout the summit, the panels have reiterated the need for urgent international coordination.
Li Qiang’s proposition for a global AI cooperation body highlights China’s ambition to lead, not just in AI development, but in its regulation. It will be interesting to see whether the rest of the world embrace this vision. The message is clear: global AI governance is no longer optional; it is imperative.