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Xi Jinping stresses AI regulation at Shanghai conference amid US tech rivalry

ai-technology · 2026-07-17

At the World AI Conference (WAIC) in Shanghai, Chinese President Xi Jinping made his inaugural address, highlighting both the opportunities and challenges presented by artificial intelligence. He advocated for a principle of "openness" alongside the establishment of regulations to ensure the technology remains "secure and controllable." This address reinforced the importance of AI as a strategic national priority for China, particularly as the country aims for increased technological self-sufficiency in light of its ongoing competition with the United States.

Key facts

  • Xi Jinping spoke at the World AI Conference (WAIC) in Shanghai.
  • This was his first speech at the WAIC.
  • He stressed the dual nature of AI's opportunities and challenges.
  • He called for openness and regulations to keep AI secure and controllable.
  • The speech highlighted AI as a national strategic priority for China.
  • China aims to build technological self-reliance amid US tech rivalry.

Entities

Institutions

  • World AI Conference (WAIC)
  • World AI Conference
  • Beijing
  • Global South
  • Chinese government
  • US government

Locations

  • Shanghai
  • China
  • United States

Sources