Chinese President Xi claims leadership in the new global AI order: Seize historic opportunities

Chinese President Xi Jinping made notable remarks regarding the technology competition between the US and China and the artificial intelligence sector at the World Artificial Intelligence Conference held in Beijing, China.

Speaking at the opening ceremony of the event, Xi called on countries to seize the "historic opportunities" offered by open-source artificial intelligence.

Xi also warned that "new historical injustices" are emerging due to inequalities in access to technology, and pledged to assist developing countries in building their artificial intelligence capacities.

Characterizing Beijing as the leader of a new global artificial intelligence order, Xi challenged US influence over the rules in this rapidly developing field, without naming the Washington administration. Xi defined China's open-source AI models as elements for the global public good.

Comparing the importance of AI to the invention of the steam engine and electricity, Xi stated that China would share its AI technology and expertise with Global South countries, while also leading efforts to establish global standards for this emerging technology.

"AI systems must remain under human control"

Xi further stated that AI systems must remain under human control, calling on countries to establish early warning and emergency response mechanisms to manage AI risks. The Chinese leader drew attention to the risks that could be posed by autonomous AI systems that might escape human oversight and control, emphasizing the need to take precautions against scenarios involving a loss of control.

Chinese President Xi said his country would organize AI training and develop AI cooperation centers with BRICS, ASEAN, Latin American, and African Union countries.

At the conference, it was emphasized that the balance in the field of AI is shifting, and it was assessed that China's "open-weight" AI models are rapidly closing the gap with the closed systems of US-based companies like OpenAI and Anthropic.

These statements came after China established the World Artificial Intelligence Cooperation Organization (WAICO) yesterday. Describing the organization, which 29 countries joined, as a "milestone in the history of world AI development," Xi said this formation responds to the demand of Global South countries to have more say in AI governance.

"World's largest open AI model" from Beijing-based Moonshot

Beijing-based Moonshot AI company introduced its Kimi K3 model today. The company touted this model as the world's largest open AI model in terms of parameter count. This introduction came one month after the US government decided to abruptly restrict access to advanced AI models from Anthropic due to security concerns.

Chinese state media characterizes Beijing's AI strategy as a move against the "AI Iron Curtain" initiative, which it claims is led by the US.

Experts assess that China's effort to lead a new global AI order could reshape global alliances at a time when governments are debating policies on AI regulation, the management of data flows, and the protection of critical infrastructure.