In a significant global appeal, Chinese Premier Li Qiang on Saturday urged the formation of an international organisation to enhance cooperation on artificial intelligence (AI), calling on countries to coordinate efforts in the development and security of the rapidly advancing technology.

Speaking at the opening of the annual World Artificial Intelligence Conference (WAIC) in Shanghai, Li called AI a new engine for growth, while adding that governance is fragmented and emphasising the need for greater coordination among countries to form a globally recognised framework for AI.

The three-day event brings together industry leaders and policymakers at a time of escalating technological competition between China and the United States – the world’s two largest economies – with AI emerging as a key battleground.

Global AI Governance Framework ASAP

“Currently, overall global AI governance is still fragmented. Countries have great differences particularly in terms of areas such as regulatory concepts, institutional rules,” Li said.

“We should strengthen coordination to form a global AI governance framework that has broad consensus as soon as possible,” he said.

Washington has imposed export restrictions on advanced technology to China, including the most high-end AI chips made by companies such as Nvidia and chipmaking equipment, citing concerns that the technology could enhance China’s military capabilities.

Despite these restrictions, China has continued making AI breakthroughs that have drawn close scrutiny from US officials.

‘Exclusive Game’

Li did not name the United States in his speech, but he warned that AI could become an “exclusive game” for a few countries and companies, and said challenges included an insufficient supply of AI chips and restrictions on talent exchange.

China wanted to share its development experience and products with other countries, especially those in the Global South, Li said.

WAIC

WAIC is an annual government-sponsored event in Shanghai that typically attracts major industry players, government officials, researchers, and investors.

Tesla CEO Elon Musk, who has in past years regularly appeared at the opening ceremony both in-person and via video, did not speak this year.

Besides forums, the conference also features exhibitions where companies demonstrate their latest innovations.

This year, more than 800 companies are participating, showcasing over 3,000 high-tech products, 40 large language models, 50 AI-powered devices, and 60 intelligent robots, according to organisers.

The exhibition features predominantly Chinese companies, including tech giants Huawei and Alibaba and startups such as humanoid robot maker Unitree. Western participants include Tesla, Alphabet, and Amazon.

(With inputs from Reuters)