China Calls for Global AI Governance Body at Shanghai Summit

China has formally proposed the creation of a global governing body to oversee the development and regulation of artificial intelligence, calling for a unified framework under the leadership of the United Nations. The proposal was made during the World Artificial Intelligence Conference (WAIC) held in Shanghai, which brought together policymakers, industry leaders, and researchers from around the world.

Chinese Premier Li Qiang emphasized the urgent need for international cooperation to ensure the safe, ethical, and inclusive development of AI technologies. In his keynote address, he stated that AI has reached a critical inflection point, where global collaboration is essential to prevent misuse, mitigate bias, and ensure access for developing nations. He urged countries to work together to develop common standards, safeguards, and open mechanisms for innovation.

China’s proposal centers on establishing a formal international agency for AI governance, modeled similarly to bodies like the International Atomic Energy Agency or the World Health Organization. According to Chinese officials, such an institution would help harmonize AI regulations across borders, resolve disputes, share best practices, and ensure that AI advancements are aligned with human values and global security


The announcement comes amid growing global concern over the unchecked expansion of generative AI systems, deepfake content, algorithmic bias, and the risk of AI-enabled misinformation. Several nations, including members of the European Union, the United States, India, and Japan, are currently drafting their own regulatory frameworks. However, China's proposal is one of the first formal calls for a centralized, UN-backed body to govern AI on a global scale.

Reactions to the announcement were mixed. Some industry experts welcomed the call as a step toward necessary global oversight, while others expressed skepticism about implementation and political neutrality. Critics questioned whether such a body could balance innovation with control, especially considering differing national interests in surveillance, data use, and economic competition.

Despite these concerns, China positioned itself as a leader willing to cooperate transparently on AI regulation. Officials underscored the importance of “AI for good,” ensuring that artificial intelligence serves global development goals, reduces inequality, and promotes peace and progress.

The proposal is expected to be further discussed at upcoming international forums, including the UN General Assembly and the G20 Summit later this year. If adopted, it could lay the foundation for a historic multilateral agreement on how humanity develops, deploys, and governs one of the most transformative technologies of our time.


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