Chinese President Xi Jinping called for stronger international cooperation on artificial intelligence while criticizing U.S. restrictions on advanced technology exports during the opening of the 2026 World Artificial Intelligence Conference in Shanghai. His remarks underscored China’s ambition to play a leading role in shaping the future of AI governance as competition between Beijing and Washington continues to intensify over chips, computing power, and emerging technologies.
A Call for Global AI Cooperation
Speaking before world leaders, business executives, and researchers, Xi urged countries to work together on creating international standards for artificial intelligence rather than allowing geopolitical tensions to divide the industry.
Xi said countries should avoid “placing their own national security interests above those of others” and argued that AI development should benefit all nations rather than becoming concentrated in the hands of a few. He also warned against monopolizing key technologies or creating barriers that limit global innovation.
His comments were widely viewed as a response to years of U.S. export controls that have restricted China’s access to advanced AI chips and semiconductor technologies.
China Criticizes US Technology Restrictions
Without naming the United States directly in every instance, Xi criticized efforts to limit technology sharing under the banner of national security.
He argued that countries should not use security concerns as a reason to block scientific progress or prevent developing nations from accessing advanced technologies. The speech comes as Washington continues tightening controls on semiconductor exports while encouraging allies to strengthen AI supply chain security.
Despite those restrictions, China has accelerated investment in domestic AI chips, computing infrastructure, and homegrown language models, aiming to reduce reliance on foreign technology.
New AI Initiatives Target Developing Nations
Xi announced several new programs designed to expand China’s AI partnerships with developing countries.
Among the initiatives, China will provide AI-powered meteorological technology to 30 countries and offer 5,000 AI training opportunities over the next five years. Beijing also emphasized deeper cooperation with organizations including ASEAN, the African Union, and BRICS members.
The country additionally unveiled the World Artificial Intelligence Cooperation Organization, which launched with participation from 29 countries and is intended to promote international collaboration on AI development and governance.
Global Leaders Stress Responsible AI Development
The conference also featured remarks from United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres, who emphasized the importance of international coordination as AI becomes more powerful.
Guterres warned, “Artificial intelligence is reshaping economies and societies,” while stressing that governments must work together to ensure the technology remains safe, inclusive, and beneficial for humanity.
His message aligned with growing international discussions over balancing innovation with regulation as AI capabilities continue to advance rapidly.
China Showcases Growing AI Capabilities
Beyond policy announcements, the Shanghai conference highlighted China’s expanding AI ecosystem.
Chinese companies introduced new computing systems and open-source AI models designed to compete with leading Western technologies despite ongoing chip restrictions. Huawei showcased its Atlas 950 SuperPoD computing platform, while Moonshot AI presented its Kimi K3 model, demonstrating China’s continued investment in domestic innovation.
The event reinforced Beijing’s strategy of positioning itself as both a technological leader and a partner for countries seeking greater access to AI tools and infrastructure.
Xi’s speech highlighted the widening divide between China and the United States over the future of artificial intelligence. While Washington continues prioritizing export controls and supply chain security, Beijing is promoting a vision centered on international cooperation and broader access to AI technologies. As governments race to shape the rules that will govern the next generation of AI, the outcome of this rivalry is likely to influence global innovation, economic growth, and international relations for years to come.
