China calls for global agreement on balancing AI progress and security
Chinese Premier Li Qiang Calls for Global Accord on AI Security
Opening Statement at World AI Conference in Shanghai
During the World Artificial Intelligence Conference (WAIC) held in Shanghai on July 26, 2025, Premier Li Qiang announced China’s commitment to open‑source AI development and global cooperation.
- Governance Emphasis: Li urged that AI growth must be balanced against serious security risks.
- International Body: China is creating a Chinese‑led international AI council to foster shared standards.
- Open‑Source Promotion: The premier promised to actively support AI models that are freely available and to share advances with developing nations.
Key Challenges Highlighted by Li Qiang
- Computing Power Bottleneck: Li pointed out that limited supply of high‑performance chips and computing infrastructure is a major barrier.
- US Export Controls: Washington’s tightening of state‑of‑the‑art chip exports to China is seen as a move to prevent military upgrades.
- AI Ethical Questions: The increasing use of AI across sectors has spurred debates on misinformation, employment displacement, and loss of technological control.
Global Reactions and Calls for Coordination
- UN Perspective: UN Secretary‑General António Guterres declared AI governance to be “a defining test of international cooperation.”
- European Initiative: French AI envoy Anne Bouverot stressed an urgent global initiative for responsible AI stewardship.
- US Stance: The United States warned against “excessive regulation” and chose not to sign the Paris summit’s appeal for an “open, inclusive, and ethical AI.”
Essential Takeaway
Premier Li Qiang’s remarks underscore a critical need for a worldwide consensus on AI development that safeguards security while encouraging shared innovation. China’s pledge to promote open‑source models and collaboration signals a significant step toward a more inclusive AI future.
