China Proposes New Global AI Body to Counter Western Dominance

In a significant move set to reshape the landscape of artificial intelligence governance, China has officially proposed the establishment of a new global AI cooperation organization. The announcement, made by Chinese Premier Li Qiang at the World Artificial Intelligence Conference (WAIC) in Shanghai, underscores Beijing’s ambition to counter perceived Western dominance in the rapidly evolving field of AI and foster a more inclusive, equitable global framework.

Premier Li’s proposal comes amidst growing geopolitical tensions and a burgeoning technological rivalry, particularly between China and the United States. While not explicitly naming the U.S., Li’s remarks at the WAIC opening ceremony on July 26 pointedly criticized “fragmented governance” and the risk of AI becoming “an exclusive game” monopolized by a few countries and companies. This thinly veiled critique highlighted concerns over Western export controls on advanced AI chips and talent exchange.

China’s vision, outlined in a complete 13-point “AI Global Governance Action Plan,” emphasizes a “people-centered approach” and calls for open-source AI development and the sharing of technological advancements, particularly with nations in the Global South. Beijing believes this approach will bridge the “AI divide” and ensure that the benefits of AI are widely accessible, rather than concentrated in a few powerful economies. The plan also includes establishing two new AI dialogue mechanisms under the United Nations and building a robust safety governance framework.

The proposal has been met with a mix of caution and curiosity globally. While some Western nations acknowledge the need for international cooperation on AI governance, they remain wary of China’s intentions, especially given concerns about data privacy and the potential for state-directed AI to embed specific ideological or censorship aspects into models. However, developing nations have largely voiced support, viewing the initiative as a potential pathway to gaining greater access to advanced AI technologies and expertise.

China has tentatively suggested Shanghai as the headquarters for the proposed World AI Cooperation Organization, leveraging the city’s burgeoning AI infrastructure. The move signals China’s readiness to take a top role in shaping how this transformative technology evolves and is governed, presenting an alternative to the largely Western-led initiatives currently in place. As AI continues to reshape industries and societies worldwide, the coming months will reveal how the international community responds to China’s bold proposition and whether a truly global, consensus-based AI governance framework can be achieved.