China’s President Xi Jinping on Friday called for the development of “secure and controllable” artificial intelligence (AI) as global competition in advanced technologies between China and the United States continues to intensify.
Xi made the remarks during a live televised address at the World Artificial Intelligence Conference held in Shanghai, China’s financial centre.
During the conference, Xi announced the creation of the World Artificial Intelligence Cooperation Organization, a new body involving 29 countries that will be headquartered in Shanghai.
He said the world has entered an “unprecedentedly vigorous period of innovation” in AI technologies, creating significant opportunities while also presenting complex governance challenges.
Xi described artificial intelligence as an “invaluable asset that encapsulates humanity’s collective wisdom.”
The appearance marked the first time Xi has attended the conference, which China has hosted annually since 2018.
In his address, Xi raised several key issues surrounding the future of AI, including how “humans can get along with thinking machines, how security can be ensured when algorithms are involved in decision-making, how ethical challenges posed by technologies can be tackled through adaptive governance, and how AI for all can be realized when the divide keeps widening.”
He said these concerns “demand serious consideration and answers from the entire international community.”
Xi also announced that China would provide 5,000 AI training and seminar opportunities over the next five years for developing countries, while outlining four major observations on the future development of the technology.
“First, we should adhere to the principle of openness and win-win cooperation and boost innovation-driven development,” he said.
Highlighting that the world was experiencing “great changes unseen in a century,” Xi called for “strengthening risk awareness and ensuring that AI is secure and controllable.”
“AI should be a trusted tool for humanity,” he said, adding that governments should establish laws and regulations, technological warning mechanisms, and emergency response systems to address potential risks.
“Third,” Xi said countries should encourage “inclusiveness and promoting mutual learning among civilizations.”
“Fourth, advocating solidarity and improving global governance.
Emphasizing that AI “is always under human control,” Xi warned against “overstretching” the idea of national security in AI development, particularly when the security interests of one country are prioritized over “that of others.”
He urged countries to uphold genuine multilateralism and acknowledge the role of the United Nations in shaping global AI governance.
“AI development should not be a solo performance by a single country, but a symphony of international cooperation,” Xi said.
