China and UN unveil global AI governance organization at Shanghai summit

At the World Artificial Intelligence Conference in Shanghai, United Nations Secretary‑General António Guterres called for inclusive, people‑centred rules for artificial intelligence and welcomed the creation of a new intergovernmental body, the World Artificial Intelligence Cooperation Organization (WAICO). The organization was launched with 29 founding members, including Belarus, and pledged to provide 5,000 free training slots for developing‑country experts over five years.

Chinese President Xi Jinping highlighted open‑source AI, fairness, safety and environmental sustainability, urging that AI be governed by shared international standards rather than a handful of nations or corporations. He warned against “overstretching” national‑security arguments that limit global collaboration. Parallel discussions in Beijing considered tighter export controls on advanced AI models and semiconductor technologies, reflecting a broader strategic push to shape AI norms and protect domestic capabilities.

The UN outlined three priority actions: expanding capacity‑building in low‑income countries, strengthening safety standards, and ensuring clean‑energy use for AI infrastructure. The launch marks the most coordinated attempt to date to align global AI development with human‑rights, climate and development goals.