NewsBite analysis · AI, Regulation
Al Jazeera
China’s Xi Jinping launches new AI alliance
China's President Xi Jinping announced the formation of the World Artificial Intelligence Cooperation Organisation (WAICO) at a tech conference in Shanghai, aiming to encourage global cooperation in AI and mitigate unilateral dominance by any one nation. This move comes at a time of heightened technological rivalry with the U.S., as China seeks to establish itself as a leader in defining the future of AI regulations. The group's 29 founding member nations include key players from the Global South, suggesting a concerted effort to reshape global governance structures around AI, particularly benefitting developing countries.
MonitorConfidence: HighShort term horizon
Published 18 Jul 2026, 12:20 UTC4 min read
Visit original article ↗Lead image — Al Jazeera
Summary
TL;DR
- Waico aims for international cooperation on AI regulations.
- 29 founding countries include major Global South nations.
- Xi Jinping emphasized collaboration over national domination in AI.
- China is positioning itself as a leader in global AI governance.
- The launch reflects geopolitical tensions with the U.S.
Interesting facts
- China currently generates more electricity than the U.S., aiding its AI model training.
- China dominates the rare earth minerals market critical for chip production.
- WAICO's formation follows a long-standing strategy to carve out a global role in AI.