World AI Cooperation Organization established in Shanghai

Twenty-nine countries signed an agreement in Shanghai on 16 July establishing the World Artificial Intelligence Cooperation Organization (WAICO), an independent intergovernmental international organisation that will be headquartered in Shanghai.

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi signed the agreement on behalf of China, while representatives from countries including Kazakhstan, Laos, Pakistan, Russia and Indonesia became founding members.

UN Secretary-General António Guterres attended the signing ceremony alongside representatives of other countries and international organisations.

According to the agreement, WAICO will uphold the purposes and principles of the UN Charter, promote extensive consultation, joint contribution and shared benefits, and follow a people-centred approach. Its stated objective is to strengthen international cooperation and global governance on AI while supporting the development of AI that is beneficial, safe and fair for humanity.

The establishment of WAICO follows China’s proposal last year to create a dedicated international organisation for AI cooperation. The organisation adds a new institutional forum to the evolving landscape of global AI governance, alongside existing multilateral and regional initiatives focused on AI policy and international cooperation.

Would you like to learn more about AI, tech and digital diplomacy? If so, ask our Diplo chatbot!