China Proposes Global AI Governance Body at Shanghai Conference

At the 2025 World Artificial Intelligence Conference (WAIC) in Shanghai, Chinese Premier Li Qiang proposed the creation of a global AI cooperation organization aimed at fostering international collaboration and ensuring AI benefits all countries rather than a select few. Li emphasized the risks of technological monopolies and export controls, warning that AI could become an exclusive domain of a handful of nations and companies if left unchecked. China's vision includes sharing AI advances with the Global South and promoting open-source access to AI technologies to bridge the digital divide. This initiative comes amid intensifying competition with the United States, which recently unveiled its own AI action plan focused on deregulation and maintaining American leadership in the field. The WAIC also highlighted a growing industry commitment to social impact, ethical governance, and inclusive AI development, with experts like Geoffrey Hinton underscoring the need for careful AI management. Overall, China's proposal reflects its ambition to shape global AI governance while addressing concerns over concentrated AI capabilities and promoting equitable technological access.