China Accelerates Establishment of World AI Cooperation Organization

The Government of China is accelerating preparations to establish the World Artificial Intelligence Cooperation Organization (WAICO), an initiative designed to promote "AI for good." Foreign Minister Wang Yi announced the plan on June 17, 2026, alongside the release of a white paper titled "More Just and Equitable Global Governance: China's Principles, Proposals and Actions."

Officials emphasized a commitment to multilateralism and inclusive growth. Zhou Haibing, deputy head of the National Development and Reform Commission, stated that China supports the United Nations as the primary channel for global AI governance and explicitly rejects technological monopolies and exclusive development models.

To advance these objectives, China will host the 2026 World Artificial Intelligence Conference and a High-Level Meeting on Global AI Governance in Shanghai in July 2026. The government intends to use the Shanghai Cooperation Organization and BRICS to deepen international cooperation and assist developing nations in narrowing the global technology divide.