China Advances Multilateral AI Governance at 2026 WAIC

China is using the 2026 World AI Conference in Shanghai to promote a UN-centered approach to international AI cooperation, combining calls for shared rules and technical standards with open-source development, safety controls, and support for developing countries.

The agenda includes establishing the World Artificial Intelligence Cooperation Organization, providing 5,000 training and seminar opportunities over five years, creating regional application centers, and expanding access to China’s MAZU meteorological warning system. The proposals could give China a larger role in shaping AI institutions and standards, while implementation, international participation, and compatibility with other national approaches remain uncertain.