Chinese Premier Li Qiang on Thursday advocated for global collaboration and a more open approach to artificial intelligence, as competition between Beijing and Washington intensifies in this emerging technology sector. China has been rapidly advancing to compete with US tech companies, especially in generative AI, with the UN reporting on Wednesday that Beijing leads the world in filing generative AI patents.
The US and other nations have expressed concern over Chinese technology, which they believe could be used for espionage. In April, Washington revoked some chip export licenses after China’s Huawei introduced a computer powered by Intel AI technology. On Thursday, Premier Li called on countries to embrace “more open mindsets” and foster international cooperation in AI.
“Each country possesses unique strengths in AI technology, data, and market presence, so we should collaborate and combine our efforts,” Li stated in his speech at the opening of the World AI Conference (WAIC) in Shanghai. Chinese tech firms are expected to showcase numerous new AI products at the multi-day international event.
In his speech, Li urged nations to encourage “cross-border data movement, free trade of equipment, and infrastructure connectivity.” He cautioned that the rapid development of AI technology brings risks that require coordinated international attention. “No country can remain unaffected,” Li remarked, emphasizing the need for global AI regulations and technical standards.
