China Advocates for Global Cooperation on AI Regulations

Chinese Premier Li Qiang has called for a unified international approach to the governance of artificial intelligence (AI), emphasizing the need to address security challenges in light of the ongoing technological competition with the United States. His remarks were made during the opening of the World Artificial Intelligence Conference (WAIC) in Shanghai.

Li highlighted the urgency of establishing a balance between technological development and security measures, stating that this requires broad consensus from the global community. He announced the formation of a Chinese-led initiative aimed at fostering international collaboration on AI, particularly focusing on open-source development to prevent AI from becoming dominated by a select few nations or corporations.

The WAIC event, which spans three days, coincides with heightened tensions between the US and China over advancements in AI technology. Recently, US President Donald Trump revealed plans to reduce regulations governing AI to uphold the country's leadership in the sector. This announcement follows ongoing restrictions imposed by Washington on the export of high-end semiconductor chips to China, citing national security concerns.

In response to these trade restrictions, Chinese enterprises are exploring alternative solutions. For instance, the startup DeepSeek has developed an AI model that competes effectively with top American systems, despite operating on less advanced hardware.

While avoiding direct references to the United States, Li criticized monopolistic practices within the AI sector and advocated for equitable access to AI technologies. He cautioned that without open access to AI resources, countries and entities could face challenges in securing an adequate supply of AI hardware and fostering talent exchange.

At the WAIC opening ceremony, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres reinforced the notion that regulating AI represents a critical test of global cooperation. This year's conference has attracted over 800 companies, showcasing more than 3,000 technological innovations.

Major Chinese firms such as Huawei and Alibaba are prominently featured, alongside international players including American companies like Tesla, Alphabet, and Amazon, underscoring the global nature of the AI industry and the competitive landscape.