Xi aims to convert China’s AI surge into global clout at Shanghai summit

At Shanghai’s World Artificial Intelligence Conference, Chinese leader Xi Jinping cast artificial intelligence as a tool of statecraft, underscoring Beijing’s intent to translate its domestic AI boom into overseas influence. Xi is expected to champion “open-weight” models—systems that can be more easily shared and adapted—particularly for developing countries, a move designed to seed Chinese technology and standards abroad. The push reflects China’s bid to set the global AI agenda and counter U.S. leadership, even as geopolitical tensions and technology restrictions complicate access to advanced hardware and cross-border collaboration. The initiative highlights the growing role of AI in diplomacy and competition for influence across the Global South.

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