China has proposed the establishment of a global cooperation organization for artificial intelligence (AI), signaling its ambitions to play a leading role in the fast-evolving technology landscape amid growing competition with the United States.
Speaking at the opening of the World Artificial Intelligence Conference in Shanghai on Saturday, Chinese Premier Li Qiang highlighted key challenges hindering AI innovation, including supply chain bottlenecks in computer chips and restrictions on talent exchange.
Li’s remarks come against the backdrop of an intensifying rivalry between China and the US, with Washington imposing export controls on advanced semiconductors and related manufacturing equipment destined for China, while urging its allies to adopt similar measures.
Despite these obstacles, China has made significant strides in AI development. Notably, Hangzhou-based firm DeepSeek released a large language model earlier this year, fueling debate about whether the US can maintain its technological dominance.
“We are willing to provide more Chinese solutions to the international community and contribute more Chinese wisdom to global artificial intelligence governance,” Li stated. He emphasized that AI would serve as a new engine of economic growth.
Premier Li also underscored China’s eagerness to collaborate with countries in the global south, aiming to ensure that advancements in AI technology benefit the wider world.
China’s foreign ministry said the AI conference and exhibition, held over four days in Shanghai, has attracted high-level representatives from more than 40 countries and international organizations.
The proposed global AI cooperation organization reflects China’s broader strategy to shape international standards and governance frameworks in emerging technologies, positioning itself as a key player on the world stage.
