China promotes inclusive AI governance at Shanghai conference

China has pushed back against claims that its open-source AI strategy and cooperation with developing countries are intended to expand its geopolitical influence.

Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian said on 16 July that AI development affects all humanity and should be guided by openness, inclusion and stronger international governance.

He called for efforts to narrow digital and technological divides, strengthen AI safety and give developing countries greater access to the benefits of the technology.

Lin also criticised technological restrictions and attempts to divide AI development along ideological lines, saying China supports sharing experience and expanding global AI innovation.

The comments came ahead of the World AI Conference and High-Level Meeting on Global AI Governance, which opened in Shanghai on 17 July and runs until 20 July.

At the opening ceremony, President Xi Jinping called for a global AI governance system centred on openness, inclusion, safety and shared development.

The conference brings together government representatives, international organisations, researchers and technology companies to discuss AI development and governance.

China is using the event to present international cooperation, open-source development and capacity-building for developing countries as central elements of its approach to global AI governance.

Why does it matter?

China’s position reflects growing competition over who shapes global AI standards, infrastructure and access. Its emphasis on open-source models and capacity-building may appeal to developing countries seeking affordable technology, while also strengthening Beijing’s influence in global AI governance. The debate, therefore, concerns both narrowing the AI divide and the strategic dependencies that may emerge around models, infrastructure and technical standards.

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