Chinese President Xi Jinping has emphasised that artificial intelligence should not be controlled by any single nation, speaking at the World Artificial Intelligence Conference in Shanghai.He described AI development as needing to be a collaborative international effort rather than a solo act by one country.

Xi urged nations to work together and oppose the use of national security concerns to restrict AI progress or prioritise one nation's interests over others.

This comes as Chinese AI models continue to advance rapidly, closing the gap with leading US technologies while offering more affordable options that are gaining international users.

The conference highlighted China's push for global AI governance frameworks, including the establishment of a new intergovernmental cooperation group with representatives from nearly 30 countries.Xi also stressed the importance of keeping AI under human control through regulations, monitoring systems, and a people-centric approach.Experts at the event noted China's ambition to lead not just in technology but also in setting global standards for AI.Meanwhile, concerns persist around military applications, potential misuse by hackers, and export restrictions from the US and EU.

The gathering featured significant Chinese tech showcases, including new AI models from local startups and advancements in practical applications for everyday use.Daily AI token consumption in China has surged dramatically, reflecting massive adoption.This message from Xi aligns with broader efforts to promote open collaboration amid geopolitical tensions in the tech sector.