Artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming economies, industries and everyday life at an unprecedented pace. The key challenge is no longer who develops the most advanced AI, but whether the technology will fuel geopolitical rivalry or drive shared global progress.
The 2026 World Artificial Intelligence Conference (WAIC), which opened in Shanghai on Friday, highlights the importance of openness, collaboration and inclusive innovation. Ahead of the conference, Shanghai hosted the signing of the Agreement on the Establishment of the World Artificial Intelligence Cooperation Organization, reinforcing the idea that effective AI governance depends on dialogue and international cooperation rather than division.
As unilateral restrictions and protectionist policies tighten technology flows and investment, concerns are growing that developing countries could be excluded from the benefits of AI, widening the global digital divide and deepening inequality.
China says it promotes a people-centred approach to AI, viewing the technology as a tool for shared development rather than a strategic resource to be monopolised. Through WAIC, open-source initiatives, joint research, talent exchanges and capacity-building programmes, China aims to expand access to AI technologies, particularly for developing nations.
China has also introduced several international initiatives, including the AI Capacity-Building Action Plan for Good and for All, the Global AI Governance Action Plan, and the AI+ International Cooperation Initiative, all advocating safe, inclusive and people-centered AI development with greater participation from developing countries.
“The underlying rationale is simple: a country’s technological leadership is measured not by how much it hoards, but by how much progress it helps others achieve.”
The article also stresses that openness must be accompanied by responsible governance. As AI capabilities expand, global cooperation is essential to address challenges such as safety, privacy, ethics and misuse, since no nation can tackle these issues alone.
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It concludes that the future of AI should be guided by cooperation rather than competition, ensuring that innovation is widely shared and its benefits are accessible to all.
Xinhua
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