Key facts
- President Xi Jinping will address the World Artificial Intelligence Conference (WAIC) in Shanghai.
- Huawei is launching its Atlas 950 SuperPoD AI computing cluster, utilizing domestic Ascend AI processors.
- Chinese companies are developing AI ecosystems independent of U.S. technology, including advanced AI chips.
- China plans to promote its open-source AI models globally.
- The conference is seen as a platform for China to shape international AI governance.
Chinese President Xi Jinping is set to articulate a significant vision for China's global role in artificial intelligence governance at the World Artificial Intelligence Conference (WAIC) in Shanghai. The event, running from July 17 to 20, also highlights China's technological advancements, with Huawei unveiling its new Atlas 950 SuperPoD AI computing cluster. This system, powered by Huawei's Ascend AI processors, signifies Beijing's determination to build a domestic AI ecosystem independent of U.S. technology, particularly Nvidia's advanced chips.
Several Chinese firms, including DeepSeek, Biren, and MetaX, are expected to showcase progress in developing AI models and computing clusters that do not rely on U.S. components. DeepSeek's latest V4 model has reportedly been adapted to run exclusively on clusters built with Huawei's Ascend chips, demonstrating advancements in creating self-sufficient AI infrastructure.
The conference takes on geopolitical significance as it precedes the first government-level AI talks between the U.S. and China under the Trump administration. Washington and Beijing have presented contrasting approaches to AI governance, with the U.S. emphasizing innovation through less regulation and China advocating for open-source models as a public good to address global AI inequality. George Chen, chair of digital practice at the Asia Group, noted that WAIC has evolved into a platform where Beijing aims to assert AI as both a national priority and a diplomatic tool.
President Xi has previously described AI as a transformative technology akin to the steam engine, underscoring China's strategic bet on AI for economic growth and technological self-sufficiency. China's proposal for a World AI Cooperation Organisation (WAICO) at last year's conference is also expected to be a focus, alongside the implementation of its Global AI Governance Initiative. Beijing is anticipated to champion its open-source AI models, positioning them as accessible alternatives to Western offerings and emphasizing their role in serving humanity.
The conference will host international figures including UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, and Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, alongside prominent AI researchers. However, representation from major U.S. tech firms is reportedly limited. An Asian diplomat highlighted China's efforts to build AI capacity with Southeast Asian countries, portraying itself as an advocate for developing nations in the AI race.