China to host global AI governance meeting in Shanghai

China will host the World Artificial Intelligence Conference (WAIC) and a high-level meeting on global AI governance in Shanghai this July, according to the official Xinhua News Agency.

A spokesperson for the Chinese government said the event is expected to serve as a platform to strengthen international cooperation in the rapidly developing field of artificial intelligence.

Zhou Haibing, Deputy Head of the National Development and Reform Commission, said Beijing views the conference as an important opportunity to advance global dialogue on AI governance.

He stressed that the governance of artificial intelligence is closely tied to the future of humanity and represents a shared challenge requiring coordinated international responses. Zhou added that China supports multilateralism, openness, and inclusiveness, and is actively contributing to the development of global regulatory frameworks for AI technologies.

Chinese authorities have reiterated their commitment to balancing technological innovation with security considerations. They emphasised a human-centred approach and the principle of “AI for good,” while also calling for enhanced international cooperation on risk prevention and the mitigation of potential threats associated with AI development.