China is accelerating efforts to build a global artificial intelligence cooperation framework and promote safer AI development as the country presents a different approach from the United States on technology governance. (17/06)

China’s top diplomat Wang Yi said Beijing is speeding up the establishment of a global AI cooperation organization and welcomes participation from all parties.

“China is accelerating the establishment of a global AI cooperation organization, and welcomes all parties to join,” Wang Yi told reporters in Mandarin Chinese, according to a CNBC translation.

Beijing Promotes Global AI Cooperation Organization

Wang made the statement during the release of China’s global governance whitepaper, which criticized trade wars and emphasized support for the Global South.

The Global South refers broadly to developing economies, especially countries outside the United States and European influence.

Wang also said artificial intelligence development should serve human needs.

His comments came as the United States increases efforts to restrict foreign access to advanced AI models developed by American companies.

China Pushes Back Against Exclusive Technology Development

The G7 summit in France this week included the United States, the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Canada, Italy, and Japan, but China was not part of the group.

During the summit, the G7 countries discussed a plan to provide “trusted partners” access to U.S. AI models, according to Reuters, citing three diplomatic sources.

China’s AI approach has focused on low-cost or free AI models that can often be downloaded in full.

Zhao Haibing, vice chair of China’s top economic agency, criticized “closed, exclusive and monopolistic approaches to tech development.”

China Expands International AI Governance Efforts

Zhao said China is working to strengthen international AI cooperation through BRICS and the Shanghai Cooperation Organization.

He also highlighted China’s “AI Capacity Building for All” initiative, support for the United Nations in leading global AI governance, and efforts to help developing countries improve technology access and talent.

The United States and China separately announced last month that they would work on AI guardrails, although few details have emerged.

Beijing Continues Global AI Cooperation Proposals

China has introduced several proposals related to global AI cooperation over the past 12 months.

Chinese President Xi Jinping proposed the “Global Governance Initiative” during a China-hosted meeting of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization late last summer.

Several weeks earlier, at an annual AI conference in Shanghai, Chinese Premier Li Qiang announced that the Chinese government had proposed establishing a global AI cooperation organization.

Li’s announcement came shortly after the Trump administration announced an AI action plan that included support for U.S. technology development overseas.

PHOTO: WORLD ECONOMIC FORUM

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