Xi Jinping Reaffirms China’s Support for the UN at Shanghai AI Conference

On July 17, Chinese President Xi Jinping met United Nations Secretary‑General Antonio Guterres at the State Hotel Xijiao in Shanghai. The meeting coincided with the World Conference on Artificial Intelligence 2026 and a high‑level gathering on global AI governance.

Xi praised Guterres’ ten‑year tenure leading the UN, noting his work on multilateralism, climate action, emerging AI governance and the start of UN reforms. Marking the 55th anniversary of China’s restored UN seat, Xi stressed the need for authentic multilateralism, respect for sovereignty, and greater responsibility from great powers to ensure international stability. Guterres thanked China for its consistent backing of the UN and pledged continued cooperation on AI, multilateralism and defending the UN Charter.

The dialogue underscores China’s diplomatic emphasis on strengthening the UN’s role in emerging global issues, particularly artificial intelligence.