Xi Jinping likens China's AI development to a swift and steady thoroughbred

President Xi Jinping has likened the development of artificial intelligence (AI) in China to a thoroughbred horse that is both swift and steady, supported by technological innovation and balanced by legislation and regulation. Speaking at the opening of the World Artificial Intelligence Conference (WAIC) 2026 and the Global AI Governance Summit in Shanghai on Friday, Xi said China understands the trends and laws of AI development and continues to refine related regulations, policies, systems, application guidelines, and ethical principles. This is to ensure AI remains safe, reliable, and controllable, he said, describing it as a high-endurance thoroughbred that can not only run fast but also run steadily. As a responsible major country, China has always been committed to being a provider of international public goods in the field of artificial intelligence, Xi added. He announced that China will provide 5,000 AI training and study quotas for developing countries. China will also establish an international cooperation centre for AI application, aimed at ASEAN, the Arab League, the African Union, the Community of Latin American and Caribbean States, the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation, and BRICS countries. Regarding support for AI development, Xi said China is building a healthy ecosystem where various players can coexist, develop, and achieve shared prosperity. He stressed that China adheres to the combination of an effective market and a proactive government, strengthening AI science and technology innovation while actively promoting the ‘Artificial Intelligence Plus’ programme. Xi noted that the scale of China’s core intelligent economy industry has surpassed one trillion yuan, with various smart devices entering millions of households, bringing tangible benefits to people’s lives. ‘Intelligent Manufacturing in China’ has become another shining name card for Chinese-style modernisation, he said. At the same time, China always upholds a balance between development and security. Xi highlighted that since he proposed the Global AI Governance Initiative, China has pushed the UN General Assembly to adopt a resolution on international cooperation in AI capacity building by consensus. He also announced that China has initiated the establishment of the World Artificial Intelligence Cooperation Organisation (WAICO), with founding documents signed by China and 28 other countries, including Indonesia, represented by Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto. Xi concluded that the development of AI should not be a solo performance by one country but a symphony of global cooperation, and China is willing to work with all parties to seize opportunities and jointly create a better future for humanity.