Xi Jinping Pushes for World AI Cooperation Organisation

• At the 2025 Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit in Gyeongju, South Korea, Chinese President Xi Jinping proposed the creation of a “World Artificial Intelligence Cooperation Organization” to regulate and coordinate global AI development. The initiative reflects China’s ambition to take a leadership role in shaping international AI governance and offer an alternative to the US-led framework on technology and trade.

China’s Proposal for Global AI Governance

• During his address, Xi stated that the proposed organisation would establish AI governance rules , encourage responsible innovation , and ensure that AI serves as a “public good for the international community.” Chinese officials suggested that the body could be headquartered in Shanghai , a growing hub for technology and commerce. The move highlights Beijing’s intent to shape the ethical, legal, and operational standards of AI at a global level.

Strategic Context and Domestic Strength

• Xi’s proposal marks China’s first formal call for an international AI regulatory body, signalling confidence in its domestic tech capabilities. China’s AI ecosystem, led by firms such as DeepSeek and Baidu , is rapidly advancing in chip design, algorithmic efficiency, and generative AI models. The initiative is part of China’s pursuit of “algorithmic sovereignty,” aimed at reducing dependence on Western technology and asserting technological independence amid ongoing trade tensions.

US-China Divide on AI Regulation

• Although the United States and China recently reached a one-year partial rollback deal easing select trade and technology restrictions, major differences remain over AI governance. President Donald Trump skipped Xi’s address, underlining the divergence in approach: Washington opposes the creation of international bodies to regulate AI, preferring national frameworks, while Beijing advocates multilateral cooperation through platforms like APEC.

Broader Economic Vision at APEC

• Beyond AI, Xi urged APEC members to support the free flow of green technologies , focusing on sectors such as electric vehicles, solar power, and batteries —areas where China already leads globally. The summit concluded with joint declarations on AI governance and ageing population management . China will host the next APEC summit in 2026 in Shenzhen , symbolising its rise as a global innovation hub.

Exam Pointers:

• Xi Jinping proposed the World AI Cooperation Organization at APEC 2025.

• Proposed headquarters: Shanghai.

• US opposes global AI regulation through international bodies.

• China–US agreed on a one-year partial trade and tech rollback deal.

• Next APEC summit (2026) to be held in Shenzhen, China.