China Launches AI Cooperation Organization, Invites Global South

China has established the World Artificial Intelligence Cooperation Organization (WAICO), an international framework for governing artificial intelligence, headquartered in Shanghai. The founding treaty was signed on July 16 by representatives from 29 countries, including Russia, Brazil, and South Africa, with UN Secretary-General António Guterres in attendance. Notably, the United States, E.U. member states, and India are not participating.

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a major step

In Chinese diplomatic circles, WAICO is presented as a "major step" to address the Global South's demand for increased involvement in AI development. The organization intends to facilitate the spread of AI applications and organize training programs, with Beijing stating the goal is to use AI "for good." This initiative is framed as a counter-proposal to traditional Western-led technology policy and perceived U.S. export controls.

The conceptual framework for WAICO is built on four principles: openness and win-win cooperation, risk awareness, inclusivity, and solidarity in global governance. China emphasizes integrating AI with existing economic sectors like industry and health, while also stressing the need for AI to be safe, reliable, and controllable. Beijing asserts it is developing technical oversight, ethical guidelines, and laws to prevent misuse and maintain human control over AI.

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for good

China explicitly rejects what it terms the "overextension of national security," a principle that prioritizes one country's security over others' interests. This stance appears to be a direct response to recent U.S. restrictions on AI models for European users. Beijing highlights that its AI models are open-source, thereby negating accusations of forming exclusive blocs. The organization also aims to coordinate international governance rules and technical standards, offering support to Global South countries to build their own AI capacities and prevent "new historical injustices."

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openness and win-win cooperation, risk awareness, inclusivity, and solidarity in global governance

Over the next five years, China plans to offer 5,000 AI training slots for participants from Global South countries, though the nature of these programs remains unspecified. Plans also include establishing AI cooperation centers.

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the overextension of national security