China will host the World Artificial Intelligence Conference (WAIC) in Shanghai from July 17 to 20. President Xi Jinping is expected to outline China's policy direction on artificial intelligence (AI) development and global governance during his keynote address.
According to Lin Jian, a spokesperson for the Chinese Foreign Ministry, the '2026 World AI Conference and High-Level Meeting on AI Global Governance' will take place from July 17 to 20 in Shanghai.
Lin stated that President Xi will present a comprehensive and systematic overview of China's policy stance and plans regarding AI development and governance during the opening ceremony.
The event, themed 'Intelligent Partners, Creating the Future Together,' will feature attendees from various governments, industry, academia, research institutions, and international organizations.
Lin noted, 'AI technology innovation is entering an unprecedentedly active phase, providing breakthroughs across multiple fields. As opportunities and challenges arise in the international community, AI governance has become a significant issue that the world must address collectively.'
He added, 'China has actively worked to ensure that AI develops in a way that benefits humanity and is inclusive, earning high praise from the international community for supporting the capacity building of Global South countries.'
Lin expressed hope that the conference would serve as a platform for countries to enhance mutual trust, build consensus, and deepen cooperation, emphasizing the desire to promote healthy, safe, and orderly AI development, making this conference a milestone in the history of AI advancement.
The WAIC has been a prominent AI event held annually in Shanghai since 2018, with the Chinese government utilizing it as a key platform to foster its domestic AI industry and lead discussions on global AI governance.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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