Chinese President Xi Jinping called for enhanced cooperation on artificial intelligence among developing countries during the World Artificial Intelligence Conference in Shanghai, which began on July 17, 2026. Xi emphasized the need to close the international technology gap and highlighted China's commitment to sharing AI development opportunities with other nations, particularly those in the developing world. His statement, 'We must work together to promote the healthy development of AI and to share opportunities,' was delivered in the presence of the prime ministers of Thailand and Cambodia, underscoring the diplomatic dimension of the event [1].
The conference served as a showcase for China's domestic advances in AI, including the unveiling of new AI-powered smartphones, innovations in chip manufacturing, and supercomputing systems. These developments were presented as part of China's broader strategy to demonstrate its technological progress and ambition to lead in emerging technologies. Exhibits such as Ant Group's 'robotic smart pharmacy' highlighted the application of AI in healthcare, reflecting the sector's growing importance in China's tech landscape [1].
While no specific financial figures were disclosed in Xi's remarks, the event took place against a backdrop of significant investments in AI infrastructure by Chinese technology companies. The emphasis on 'AI diplomacy' signals Beijing's intent to strengthen ties with neighboring developing countries through technology collaboration, potentially influencing the competitive dynamics of the global AI sector [1].
The Shanghai forum thus illustrated China's dual focus on technological innovation and international cooperation, positioning itself as a leader in AI and as a partner to other developing economies seeking to advance their own technological capabilities [1].
CONCLUSION
China used the Shanghai AI forum to project its technological leadership and diplomatic ambitions, with President Xi Jinping advocating for greater AI cooperation among developing countries. The event highlighted China's advances in AI and its strategy to leverage technology for international influence, with potential implications for global competition in the sector.