The 2026 World Artificial Intelligence Conference was held from July 17-20 in Shanghai, featuring a keynote speech by Chinese President Xi Jinping and the formation of the World Artificial Intelligence Cooperation Organisation (WAICO), a new intergovernmental body headquartered in the city, with 29 founding members.
Between July 16-18, President Xi Jinping and Foreign Minister Wang Yi held bilateral meetings with high level guests attending the conference along with the concurrent High-Level Meeting on Global AI Governance.
On the afternoon of July 16, President Xi Jinping met with the President of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev.
President Xi noted that, in a world undergoing profound and complex changes unseen in a century, the China-Kazakhstan relationship has stood the test of time and grown ever stronger. The permanent comprehensive strategic partnership has maintained excellent development and demonstrated huge cooperation potential and broad prospects. He emphasised that steadily advancing bilateral cooperation across the board serves the fundamental interests of the two countries and two peoples. China will work with Kazakhstan to implement the four global initiatives and enhance coordination and collaboration in multilateral mechanisms including the United Nations, the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation, and the China-Central Asia mechanism to jointly uphold international fairness and justice.
President Tokayev extended warm congratulations on the 105th anniversary of the founding of the Communist Party of China (CPC), and commended China for its remarkable development achievements under the wise leadership of President Xi. Kazakhstan views its relations with China as a top foreign policy priority and is committed to continuously strengthening the permanent comprehensive strategic partnership with China. Kazakhstan is in complete agreement with President Xi’s important observations on the bilateral relations and will make vigorous efforts with China to translate them into action.
The next day Xi met with Prime Minister of Cambodia Hun Manet.
President Xi stated that having stood in solidarity and supported each other throughout the years, China and Cambodia have forged an ironclad friendship that has stood the test of time and weathered storms. History has proven that the China-Cambodia friendship is not built on any single occasion or particular issue. Rather, it is rooted in a consensus that transcends the evolving international landscape and has been passed down through generations. It is a precious asset shared by both sides. He emphasised that in the great endeavours of governing and strengthening the Party, the Communist Party of China has formed the thought on party building for the new era, which will continue to galvanise the mighty force driving Chinese modernisation. As this year marks the 75th anniversary of the founding of the Cambodian People’s Party, China stands ready to strengthen experience sharing with the Cambodian side on party building and state governance.
Moreover, Xi added, as it serves the fundamental and long-term interests of both Cambodia and Thailand to consolidate the ceasefire and gradually build mutual trust, China supports the two countries in finding a solution to their conflict through dialogue and negotiation, and is ready to continue playing a positive role in this regard.
Hun Manet stated that Cambodia and China enjoy close high-level exchanges and fruitful cooperation in various fields and expressed gratitude to China for its long-term selfless assistance in support of Cambodia’s economic and social development. No matter how the international situation may evolve, Cambodia’s policy of close and friendly cooperation with China will never change, and Cambodia will actively commit to building a Cambodia-China community with a shared future. Cambodia firmly adheres to the one-China principle and will work with China to carry forward the traditional friendship, implement the important consensus reached by leaders of the two countries, deepen political mutual trust, expand bilateral trade, carry out cooperation on infrastructure and other major projects, step up efforts in combating telecom fraud, and strive for new achievements in the development of bilateral relations. Cambodia is grateful for China’s active efforts in promoting peace and facilitating talks for a peaceful settlement of the Cambodia-Thailand border dispute, and will stay committed to dialogue, negotiation and deescalation.
President Xi also met with Prime Minister of Thailand Anutin Charnvirakul on the same day.
Xi noted that China-Thailand friendship, spanning over millennia, has grown ever stronger with the passage of time. China places the development of its relationship with Thailand in an important position in its neighbourhood diplomacy and has always been a trustworthy and reliable strategic cooperative partner of Thailand. China and Thailand should further enhance strategic mutual trust, step up strategic coordination, jointly address challenges, and move faster to build a China-Thailand community with a shared future for enhanced stability, prosperity and sustainability, with a view to boosting the modernisation process of both countries and contributing to regional peace, stability, development and prosperity.
He added that the two sides should accelerate the building of the China-Thailand high-speed railway and the railway connectivity among China, Laos and Thailand, and expand cooperation in emerging areas such as AI, aviation and aerospace, and clean energy.
To properly handle the border dispute between Thailand and Cambodia serves the common and long-term interests of people of the two countries. It is hoped that the two sides will remain committed to dialogue and consultation and settle the dispute in a peaceful manner. China is ready to continue to play a constructive role to this end.
Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul said he was very pleased to make his first official visit to China as Prime Minister and extended warm congratulations on the 105th anniversary of the founding of the Communist Party of China. He pointed out that China has always been a reliable and trustworthy good friend of Thailand, and the two countries have all along respected, trusted and supported each other. Thailand firmly upholds the one-China policy. Thailand is committed to the peaceful resolution of the Thailand-Cambodia conflict and appreciates China’s fair and impartial role in this regard.
Also on the afternoon of July 17, President Xi Jinping met with United Nations Secretary General António Guterres.
Xi noted that, over the past 10 years as Secretary General, Guterres has led the UN in firmly defending multilateralism, tackling global challenges like climate change, advancing governance in emerging areas such as AI, and kickstarting UN reform, which China highly commends. This year marks the 55th anniversary of the restoration of the lawful seat of the People’s Republic of China in the UN Since then, China has remained a builder of world peace, a contributor to global development, and a defender of the international order, and has always been a staunch supporter of the UN.
He stressed that the world today is witnessing greater transformation and turbulence, making it all the more necessary to practice true multilateralism and revitalise the status and role of the UN. First, we should uphold fairness and justice. Every country is an equal member of the international community, and the sovereignty, territorial integrity, and legitimate rights and interests of all countries must be respected. The world must not return to the law of the jungle. Second, we should uphold principles and break new ground. Upholding principles means honouring the purposes of the UN Charter and safeguarding the international system and rules established after World War II. Breaking new ground means encouraging the UN to adapt to the changing times, embrace self-reform, and further improve its efficiency. Third, we should step forward and assume our responsibilities. As the 190-plus countries in the world are in the same ship with their future tied together, we must work together and rise to global challenges in a spirit of solidarity. Major countries should shoulder greater responsibilities and demonstrate a broader vision.
Guterres said that under the strong leadership of President Xi, China has remained a firm supporter of multilateralism and the UN’s endeavours, and a driving force for international cooperation—no matter how difficult or complex the international circumstances may be, setting an example for the world. China has always been a champion in addressing development imbalances, tackling climate change, developing AI for good, closing the development gap, and upholding fairness and justice, and has also put forward a series of major visions and initiatives. This is truly admirable. The UN will continue to strengthen cooperation with China, resist unilateralism, protectionism, and domineering and bullying practices, uphold the UN Charter and international law, advance world multipolarity, and safeguard the common interests of the international community.
António Guterres had a separate meeting with Wang Yi on the same day.
Wang said that China is promoting the establishment of the WAICO for three main purposes: first, to advance AI development that puts people first, embraces inclusiveness and shared benefits, develops AI for sound and positive outcomes, and delivers benefits to humanity; second, to help countries of the Global South keep pace with the global intelligent transformation, bolster capacity building and avert a new AI divide; and third, to further support the United Nations in playing its primary role in the field of AI. China stands ready to strengthen coordination and cooperation with the UN, jointly advance the governance of emerging technologies including AI, and work hand in hand to build a community with a shared future for humanity.
Multipolarity, he continued, is an inevitable trend of historical evolution; the UN can only be strengthened, never weakened. The more turbulent and unstable the international situation becomes, the more imperative it is to safeguard the authority of the United Nations. Concrete actions should be taken to uphold, revitalise, and strengthen the UN, and all countries should join hands to promote equal and orderly multipolarity and universally beneficial and inclusive economic globalisation. The three pillars of the UN must be advanced in a balanced manner. In particular, development should be placed high on the agenda to rectify the historical injustice where the rich remain rich and the poor remain poor. The United Nations should also keep pace with the times and continuously reform and improve itself.
Guterres said that at a time when multilateralism is facing headwinds, the UN looks forward to continuing to work hand in hand with China, with its firm support, to jointly defend the international rule of law, reform and improve global governance, and advance the three pillars of peace, development, and human rights in a balanced manner. In particular, efforts should be made to safeguard the legitimate rights and interests of developing countries and promote the building of a multipolar world.
The next day, Wang Yi had a meeting with Foreign Minister of the Commonwealth of Dominica Vince Henderson.
Wang welcomed Vince Henderson’s special trip to China to attend the conference, emphasising that China does not want to see a new intelligence divide emerge alongside the existing wealth gap in the world. Regardless of their size, all countries have the right to economic development and technological progress. Artificial intelligence should be developed for the positive and for good, be inclusive and universally beneficial, and serve the well-being of humanity.
He stated that Dominica is a good friend and partner of China in the Caribbean region. The two sides have always treated each other as equals and pursued win-win cooperation, with their political mutual trust continuously consolidated and exchanges and cooperation in various fields deepened. China appreciates Dominica’s adherence to the one-China principle and supports Dominica in pursuing a development path suited to its national conditions. On the basis of equality and mutual respect, China is willing to deepen friendly cooperation with all Latin American and Caribbean countries, promote the building of a China-LAC community with a shared future, and contribute to world peace, stability, development, and prosperity.
Vince Henderson stated that it is a great honour to attend this grand event as a representative of Caribbean countries. Dominica fully endorses the important concepts and initiatives put forward by President Xi Jinping in his keynote speech, and supports China in closely cooperating with the United Nations to promote artificial intelligence as a fair and inclusive international public good, ensuring that Global South countries, including those in the Caribbean, benefit from it on an equal footing. The Dominica-China relationship is a model of China-Latin America friendship. Dominica firmly adheres to the one-China principle and expresses its gratitude for China’s selfless assistance to Dominica’s economic and social development over the years, as well as its support for Dominica in addressing global challenges such as climate change.
Also on July 18, Wang Yi met with Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Relations of Lesotho Limpho Tau.
Wang stated that in the development of AI, no country should fall behind. Developing countries, in particular, are entitled to their legitimate right to technological development. China’s initiative to establish the WAICO was to enhance the capacity building of Global South countries, enable all countries to embrace the trend of the new technological era, and promote the positive development of AI, and benefit all humanity. He added that China’s diplomacy has always upheld the principle of equality among all countries regardless of size. Despite differences in land area and national size, China and Lesotho have always been strategic partners that trust and support each other. China will continue to support Lesotho in safeguarding its sovereignty, security, and development interests, encourage Chinese enterprises to invest and start businesses in Lesotho, welcome more characteristic products of Lesotho to enter the Chinese market, and promote bilateral relations towards broader fields and higher levels. China is a trustworthy good friend and partner of Africa. The Chinese side believes that there can be no modernisation of the world without the modernisation of Africa. The zero-tariff measure announced by President Xi Jinping has been implemented in Africa, and China stands ready to continue making its own efforts for the development and revitalisation of African countries, including Lesotho.
Limpho Tau said that Lesotho is very honoured to be a founding member of the WAICO. Lesotho looks forward to actively participating in the construction of the organisation, contributing to the country’s economic development, and safeguarding the common rights and interests of the Global South countries. Lesotho views China as a trustworthy strategic partner and sincerely thanks President Xi Jinping for the zero-tariff policy for African countries, as well as the valuable support China has long provided to African countries, including Lesotho, in infrastructure development and improving people’s livelihoods.
The previous day, Wang Yi had met with Russian Deputy Chief of Staff of the Presidential Executive Office Maxim Oreshkin.
Wang Yi welcomed Maxim Oreshkin’s participation in the conference and the Russian government’s signing of the agreement on the establishment of the World Artificial Intelligence Cooperation Organisation (WAICO). Wang Yi stated that China and Russia are comprehensive strategic partners of coordination for the new era, and both sides have consistently supported and understood each other on international and regional affairs.
On behalf of the Russian government, Maxim Oreshkin said that the establishment of the WAICO is a major Chinese initiative benefiting the world. Russia highly appreciates the move and is pleased to become a founding member. Russia looks forward to working with China to jointly promote the development of the organisation, expand cooperation in artificial intelligence, and inject new momentum into the Russia-China comprehensive strategic partnership of coordination for the new era. Russia is willing to work with China to jointly implement the consensus reached by the two heads of state, maintain close high-level exchanges, deepen practical cooperation, strengthen multilateral coordination and achieve mutual benefit and win-win results.
On July 18, Wang Yi met with Indonesian Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto.
Wang welcomed Airlangga Hartarto’s special trip to China to attend the conference, stating that Indonesia becoming one of the founding members of the World Artificial Intelligence Cooperation Organisation (WAICO) reflects the country’s positive attitude toward international cooperation on AI. WAICO is tailor-made for the Global South, aiming to prevent a new AI divide in the world. The development of artificial intelligence should serve all of humanity. Every country has the right to keep pace with the trend of technological development, serving its own people’s well-being and national revitalisation. China stands ready to work with like-minded countries to advance AI development in an inclusive and universally beneficial direction. In particular, efforts should be made to enhance the voice and representation of developing countries, and work hand in hand to safeguard the legitimate rights and interests of the Global South.
He added that as representatives of the Global South and emerging economies, China and Indonesia share similar development goals, extensive common interests, and distinct complementary advantages. Both sides should strengthen the alignment of their development strategies, move toward each other, engage in positive interactions, exclude disruptions, maintain strategic focus, and continuously deepen mutually beneficial cooperation in various fields, setting an example of solidarity, mutual assistance, and joint self-reliance for the Global South. China-Indonesia cooperation is not targeted at any third party, nor should it be interfered with by any third party. Both sides should take the lead in defending the multilateral trading system, jointly oppose ‘decoupling and severing of supply chains’, and safeguard the security and stability of global industrial and supply chains. China is willing to strengthen coordination with Indonesia in international and regional affairs, push forward the building of a China-Indonesia community with a shared future that carries regional and global influence, and contribute to the common development of both countries and humanity as a whole.
Airlangga Hartarto said that Indonesia is honoured to be a founding member of the WAICO. This organisation will help the Global South deeply participate in global AI governance, jointly defend multilateralism, and safeguard the legitimate rights and interests of developing countries. China has remained Indonesia’s largest trading partner and an important source of investment for many years. Indonesia highly appreciates the contributions made by Chinese enterprises to the building of Indonesia’s industrial and supply chains and to its technological progress. President Prabowo Subianto welcomes and invites more Chinese enterprises to invest in the country, and Indonesia will create a favourable business environment for enterprises from all countries, including China, to invest and operate. Indonesia looks forward to continuously expanding important Belt and Road cooperation projects with China, such as the “Two Countries, Twin Parks” project, further deepening trade and investment relations, creating synergies in economic development, and achieving new progress in mutually beneficial cooperation between the two countries, so as to deliver benefits to the people of both nations.
Wang Yi also met with Pakistani Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Mohammad Ishaq Dar on July 16. We previously reported that meeting here.
The following articles were originally published on the website of the Chinese Foreign Ministry.
President Xi Jinping Meets with President of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev
July 16 (MFA) – On the afternoon of July 16, 2026, President Xi Jinping met with the President of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, who is in China for the 2026 World AI Conference and High-Level Meeting on Global AI Governance, at the Xijiao State Guest Hotel in Shanghai.
President Xi noted that, in a world undergoing profound and complex changes unseen in a century, the China-Kazakhstan relationship has stood the test of time and grown ever stronger. The permanent comprehensive strategic partnership has maintained excellent development and demonstrated huge cooperation potential and broad prospects. China just celebrated the 105th anniversary of the founding of the Communist Party of China (CPC). Over the years, the CPC has pressed ahead with remarkable success and lived up to the mission entrusted to it by history and the people. Its strength comes fundamentally from its fine qualities including the dedication to the pursuit of truth, the deep bond with the people, the determination to shoulder historical missions, the readiness to follow the trend of development, the courage and capability to fight, and the commitment to self-strengthening. This is the key to the CPC’s success. Kazakhstan is carrying out comprehensive reforms, making a strategic move to position the country for the future. China and Kazakhstan should better align their development strategies and policies and keep enhancing practical cooperation to boost common development and elevate bilateral strategic coordination to new levels with fresh achievements.
President Xi emphasized that steadily advancing bilateral cooperation across the board serves the fundamental interests of the two countries and two peoples. The two countries should promote the innovative development of trade, improve trade structure, and foster new business forms in cross-border e-commerce and trade in services. They should expand energy and minerals cooperation and speed up the implementation of major projects. They should advance connectivity, step up direct flight services, and facilitate international road transport. They should develop new quality productive forces, and China stands ready to share its technologies in areas including the digital economy and artificial intelligence to support Kazakhstan’s digital transformation. They should work effectively under the China-Kazakhstan Year of Cultural Exchange, and increase cooperation in education, science and technology, medical services, public health, sports and the media to cement the long-standing friendship. China will work with Kazakhstan to implement the four global initiatives, and enhance coordination and collaboration in multilateral mechanisms including the United Nations, the Shanghai Cooperation Organization, and the China-Central Asia mechanism to jointly uphold international fairness and justice.
President Tokayev expressed his delight at coming to Shanghai, a hotbed of innovation, to attend the World AI Conference. He extended warm congratulations on the 105th anniversary of the founding of the CPC, and commended China for its remarkable development achievements under the wise leadership of President Xi. Kazakhstan views its relations with China as a top foreign policy priority, and is committed to continuously strengthening the permanent comprehensive strategic partnership with China. Kazakhstan is in complete agreement with President Xi’s important observations on the bilateral relations and will make vigorous efforts with China to translate them into action. Kazakhstan looks forward to closer high-level exchanges, stronger practical cooperation in trade, investment, transport, energy, agriculture and the digital economy, and more people-to-people exchanges with China, so as to produce more tangible outcomes as bilateral ties continue to grow. Kazakhstan highly commends and supports the four global initiatives and the vision of building a community with a shared future for humanity put forward by President Xi. It will continue the excellent coordination with China on multilateral platforms, including the United Nations, the Shanghai Cooperation Organization, the China-Central Asia mechanism and the Conference on Interaction and Confidence-Building Measures in Asia, to develop robust cooperation on global AI governance and jointly promote global sustainable development and peace and stability.
Following the meeting, the two presidents witnessed the signing and announcement of multiple cooperation documents in the economy and trade, transport, public finance, the media and other areas.
Cai Qi, Ding Xuexiang, Wang Yi and Chen Jining attended the events.
President Xi Jinping Meets with Prime Minister of Cambodia Hun Manet
July 17 (MFA) – On the afternoon of July 17, 2026, President Xi Jinping met with the Prime Minister of Cambodia Hun Manet, who is in China to attend the 2026 World Artificial Intelligence Conference and High-Level Meeting on Global AI Governance and pay a working visit, at the Xijiao State Guest Hotel in Shanghai.
President Xi stated that having stood in solidarity and supported each other throughout the years, China and Cambodia have forged an ironclad friendship that has stood the test of time and weathered storms. History has proven that the China-Cambodia friendship is not built on any single occasion or particular issue. Rather, it is rooted in a consensus that transcends the evolving international landscape and has been passed down through generations. It is a precious asset shared by both sides. The two sides should carry forward this ironclad friendship forged by the elder generation of leaders of the two countries, enhance strategic mutual trust, pursue stronger solidarity and closer collaboration, add substance to the Diamond Hexagon cooperation framework, and take the building of the all-weather China-Cambodia community with a shared future in the new era to new heights, so as to deliver more benefits to the two peoples.
President Xi emphasized that in the great endeavors of governing and strengthening the Party, the Communist Party of China has formed the thought on party building for the new era, which will continue to galvanize the mighty force driving Chinese modernization. As this year marks the 75th anniversary of the founding of the Cambodian People’s Party, China stands ready to strengthen experience sharing with the Cambodian side on party building and state governance, and to stay the course of China-Cambodia friendly cooperation in the new era. The two sides should give full play to the role of the China-Cambodia Intergovernmental Coordination Committee, accelerate the development of the Industrial and Technological Corridor and the Fish and Rice Corridor, upgrade traditional industries such as electricity and agriculture, foster emerging industries such as artificial intelligence and the digital economy, and ensure the coordinated development of infrastructure projects that benefit Cambodia’s national economy and people’s livelihoods. The two sides should make good use of the China-Cambodia “3+3” strategic dialogue mechanism, which covers foreign affairs, defense, and public security, to jointly crack down hard on cross-border crimes such as counterfeiting, smuggling, online gambling, and telecom fraud, so as to better safeguard common interests and security. China will work with Cambodia to jointly promote the implementation of the four global initiatives and build a more just and equitable global governance system. As it serves the fundamental and long-term interests of both Cambodia and Thailand to consolidate the ceasefire and gradually build mutual trust, China supports the two countries in finding a solution through dialogue and negotiation, and is ready to continue playing a positive role in this regard.
Prime Minister Hun Manet congratulated China on a successful 2026 World Artificial Intelligence Conference, and underscored that the important visions and propositions put forth by President Xi are of great significance to global AI governance. He stated that Cambodia and China enjoy close high-level exchanges and fruitful cooperation in various fields, and expressed gratitude to China for its long-term selfless assistance in support of Cambodia’s economic and social development. No matter how the international situation may evolve, Cambodia’s policy of close and friendly cooperation with China will never change, and Cambodia will actively commit to building a Cambodia-China community with a shared future. Cambodia firmly adheres to the one-China principle, and will work with China to carry forward the traditional friendship, implement the important consensus reached by leaders of the two countries, deepen political mutual trust, expand bilateral trade, carry out cooperation on infrastructure and other major projects, step up efforts in combating telecom fraud, and strive for new achievements in the development of bilateral relations. Cambodia is grateful for China’s active efforts in promoting peace and facilitating talks for a peaceful settlement of the Cambodia-Thailand border dispute, and will stay committed to dialogue, negotiation and deescalation.
Cai Qi, Ding Xuexiang, Wang Yi, and Chen Jining, among others, attended the meeting.
President Xi Jinping Meets with Prime Minister of Thailand Anutin Charnvirakul
July 17 (MFA) – On the afternoon of July 17, 2026, President Xi Jinping met with Prime Minister of Thailand Anutin Charnvirakul at the Xijiao State Guest Hotel in Shanghai, who is in China to attend the 2026 World AI Conference and High-Level Meeting on Global AI Governance and pay an official visit.
President Xi noted that China-Thailand friendship, spanning over millennia, has grown ever stronger with the passage of time. Treating each other with sincerity and mutual trust, the two sides have forged a relationship of “Jeen Thai Phee Nong Gan.” China places the development of its relationship with Thailand in an important position in its neighborhood diplomacy, and has always been a trustworthy and reliable strategic cooperative partner of Thailand. China and Thailand should further enhance strategic mutual trust, step up strategic coordination, jointly address challenges, and move faster to build a China-Thailand community with a shared future for enhanced stability, prosperity and sustainability, with a view to boosting the modernization process of both countries and contributing to regional peace, stability, development and prosperity.
President Xi stressed that China firmly supports Thailand in following a development path suited to its national conditions, and supports the smooth administration of Thailand’s new government. In response to complex and profound changes in the international landscape, China and Thailand should enhance high-level exchanges and make good use of the “2+2” strategic dialogue mechanism between foreign and defense ministers of the two countries to elevate strategic coordination to a higher level. The two sides should accelerate the building of the China-Thailand high-speed railway and the railway connectivity among China, Laos and Thailand, and expand cooperation in emerging areas such as AI, aviation and aerospace, and clean energy. The two sides should enhance cooperation in tourism, media, education and other fields, and bring the two peoples closer. The two sides should also continue to crack down on online gambling, telecom fraud and other cross-border crimes, so as to foster a secure environment for their practical cooperation and people-to-people exchanges. China supports Thailand in playing a greater role in international and regional affairs, and is ready to enhance coordination and collaboration with Thailand under multilateral frameworks including APEC, China-ASEAN cooperation and Lancang-Mekong cooperation. To properly handle the border dispute between Thailand and Cambodia serves the common and long-term interests of people of the two countries. It is hoped that the two sides will remain committed to dialogue and consultation, and settle the dispute in a peaceful manner. China is ready to continue to play a constructive role to this end.
Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul said he was very pleased to make his first official visit to China as Prime Minister and extended warm congratulations on the 105th anniversary of the founding of the Communist Party of China. He pointed out that China has always been a reliable and trustworthy good friend of Thailand, and the two countries have all along respected, trusted and supported each other. Thailand firmly upholds the one-China policy. Thailand is committed to deepening its relationship with China, enhancing high-level exchanges, expanding practical cooperation in multiple areas such as trade, investment, high-tech and connectivity, jointly combating online gambling and telecom fraud, and carrying out cooperation on global AI governance, so as to make the comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership better benefit the two peoples. The four major global initiatives put forth by President Xi Jinping demonstrate a commitment to multilateralism, and have positive support from Thailand. Thailand is ready to enhance coordination and collaboration with China to promote regional and world peace, stability, development and prosperity. Thailand is committed to the peaceful resolution of the Thailand-Cambodia conflict, and appreciates China’s fair and impartial role in this regard.
Cai Qi, Ding Xuexiang, Wang Yi, Chen Jining, among others, were present at the meeting.
President Xi Jinping Meets with United Nations Secretary General António Guterres
July 17 (MFA) – On the afternoon of July 17, 2026, President Xi Jinping met with United Nations Secretary General António Guterres, who is in China for the 2026 World AI Conference and High-Level Meeting on Global AI Governance, at the Xijiao State Guest Hotel in Shanghai.
President Xi noted that, over the past 10 years as Secretary General, Mr. Guterres has led the U.N. in firmly defending multilateralism, tackling global challenges like climate change, advancing governance in emerging areas such as AI, and kickstarting U.N. reform, which China highly commends. This year marks the 55th anniversary of the restoration of the lawful seat of the People’s Republic of China in the U.N. Since then, China has remained a builder of world peace, a contributor to global development, and a defender of the international order, and has always been a staunch supporter of the U.N. I have put forth the vision of building a community with a shared future for humanity and the four global initiatives, and one important consideration is to uphold the status and authority of the U.N. China will, as always, deepen cooperation with the U.N. to advance world peace and development and build a community with a shared future for humanity.
President Xi stressed that the world today is witnessing greater transformation and turbulence, making it all the more necessary to practice true multilateralism and revitalize the status and role of the U.N. First, we should uphold fairness and justice. Every country is an equal member of the international community, and the sovereignty, territorial integrity, and legitimate rights and interests of all countries must be respected. The world must not return to the law of the jungle. Second, we should uphold principles and break new ground. Upholding principles means honoring the purposes of the U.N. Charter and safeguarding the international system and rules established after World War II. Breaking new ground means encouraging the U.N. to adapt to the changing times, embrace self-reform, and further improve its efficiency. Third, we should step forward and assume our responsibilities. As the 190-plus countries in the world are in the same ship with their future tied together, we must work together and rise to global challenges in a spirit of solidarity. Major countries should shoulder greater responsibilities and demonstrate a broader vision. China has been taking concrete steps to actively explore the right way for major countries to get along with each other in the new era, with a view to bringing more stability and certainty to the world.
Secretary General Guterres said that under the strong leadership of President Xi, China has remained a firm supporter of multilateralism and the U.N.’s endeavors, and a driving force for international cooperation—no matter how difficult or complex the international circumstances may be, setting an example for the world. China has always been a champion in addressing development imbalances, tackling climate change, developing AI for good, closing the development gap, and upholding fairness and justice, and has also put forward a series of major visions and initiatives. This is truly admirable. The U.N. will continue to strengthen cooperation with China, resist unilateralism, protectionism, and domineering and bullying practices, uphold the U.N. Charter and international law, advance world multipolarity, and safeguard the common interests of the international community.
Cai Qi, Ding Xuexiang, Wang Yi and Chen Jining attended the meeting.
Wang Yi Meets with UN Secretary-General António Guterres
July 17 (MFA) – On July 17, 2026, Member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and Foreign Minister Wang Yi met in Shanghai with U.N. Secretary-General António Guterres, who is in China for the 2026 World Artificial Intelligence Conference.
Wang Yi welcomed António Guterres’s visit to China to attend the conference and witness the signing ceremony of the Agreement on the Establishment of the World Artificial Intelligence Cooperation Organization (WAICO). Wang Yi stated that President Xi Jinping delivered a keynote speech at the opening ceremony this morning, comprehensively elaborating on China’s position and propositions on how to promote the healthier, safer, and more orderly development of artificial intelligence. The speech clarified the development goals of AI and the direction of international efforts, receiving enthusiastic and positive responses from all participating parties. China is promoting the establishment of the WAICO for three main purposes: first, to advance AI development that puts people first, embraces inclusiveness and shared benefits, develops AI for sound and positive outcomes, and delivers benefits to humanity; second, to help countries of the Global South keep pace with the global intelligent transformation, bolster capacity building and avert a new AI divide; and third, to further support the United Nations in playing its primary role in the field of AI. China stands ready to strengthen coordination and cooperation with the U.N., jointly advance the governance of emerging technologies including AI, and work hand in hand to build a community with a shared future for humanity.
Wang Yi stressed that over the past decade in office, Mr. Secretary-General has upheld the vision of multilateralism, spoken out for global peace and development, and boosted fruitful cooperation between the U.N. and China, for which China expresses high appreciation. Multipolarity is an inevitable trend of historical evolution; the U.N. can only be strengthened, never weakened. The more turbulent and unstable the international situation becomes, the more imperative it is to safeguard the authority of the United Nations. Concrete actions should be taken to uphold, revitalize, and strengthen the United Nations, and all countries should join hands to promote equal and orderly multipolarity and universally beneficial and inclusive economic globalization. The three pillars of the U.N. must be advanced in a balanced manner. In particular, development should be placed high on the agenda to rectify the historical injustice where the rich remain rich and the poor remain poor. The United Nations should also keep pace with the times and continuously reform and improve itself. China stands ready to further deepen all-round cooperation with the U.N. and support the organization in fostering a more just and equitable global governance system through reforms.
António Guterres warmly congratulated the successful convening of the World AI Conference and spoke highly of China’s initiative to establish the WAICO. He stated that he fully endorses the important propositions put forward by President Xi Jinping in his keynote speech, particularly the emphasis on AI for good, inclusiveness and security, which is highly consistent with the United Nations’ strategic goals and philosophy. The U.N. stands ready to maintain close communication and cooperation with China, and support the WAICO in playing an important role and better serving the shared well-being of humanity. At a time when multilateralism is facing headwinds, the U.N. looks forward to continuing to work hand in hand with China, with its firm support, to jointly defend the international rule of law, reform and improve global governance, and advance the three pillars of peace, development, and human rights in a balanced manner. In particular, efforts should be made to safeguard the legitimate rights and interests of developing countries and promote the building of a multipolar world.
The two sides also exchanged views on international and regional issues of common concern.
Wang Yi Meets with Foreign Minister of Dominica Vince Henderson
July 18 (MFA) – On July 18, 2026, Member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and Foreign Minister Wang Yi met in Shanghai with Foreign Minister of Dominica Vince Henderson, who is in China for the 2026 World AI Conference.
Wang Yi welcomed Vince Henderson’s special trip to China to attend the conference, emphasizing that China does not want to see a new intelligence divide emerge alongside the existing wealth gap in the world. Regardless of their size, all countries have the right to economic development and technological progress. Artificial intelligence should be developed for the positive and for good, be inclusive and universally beneficial, and serve the well-being of humanity. China stands ready to strengthen coordination and cooperation within the World Artificial Intelligence Cooperation Organization (WAICO) with developing countries, including Dominica, foster steady and robust growth of the organization, contribute to the development of the Global South, and play a role in human progress.
Wang Yi stated that Dominica is a good friend and partner of China in the Caribbean region. The two sides have always treated each other as equals and pursued win-win cooperation, with their political mutual trust continuously consolidated and exchanges and cooperation in various fields deepened. China appreciates Dominica’s adherence to the one-China principle, and supports Dominica in pursuing a development path suited to its national conditions. Guided by the consensus reached by the leaders of the two countries, China stands ready to work together with Dominica to strengthen alignment of development strategies and deepen mutually beneficial cooperation, and promote the continuous advancement of China-Dominica relations. On the basis of equality and mutual respect, China is willing to deepen friendly cooperation with all Latin American and Caribbean countries, promote the building of a China-LAC community with a shared future, and contribute to world peace, stability, development, and prosperity.
Vince Henderson stated that it is a great honor to attend this grand event as a representative of Caribbean countries. Dominica fully endorses the important concepts and initiatives put forward by President Xi Jinping in his keynote speech, and supports China in closely cooperating with the United Nations to promote artificial intelligence as a fair and inclusive international public good, ensuring that Global South countries, including those in the Caribbean, benefit from it on an equal footing. The Dominica-China relationship is a model of China-Latin America friendship. Dominica firmly adheres to the one-China principle, and expresses its gratitude for China’s selfless assistance to Dominica’s economic and social development over the years, as well as its support for Dominica in addressing global challenges such as climate change. Dominica is ready to deepen cooperation with China across all sectors and continuously write a new chapter in bilateral relations.
Wang Yi Meets with Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Relations of Lesotho Limpho Tau
July 18 (MFA) – On July 18, 2026, Member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and Foreign Minister Wang Yi met in Shanghai with Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Relations of Lesotho Limpho Tau, who is in China for the 2026 World AI Conference.
Wang Yi welcomed Limpho Tau’s visit to China to attend the conference and sign agreement on the establishment of the World Artificial Intelligence Cooperation Organization (WAICO) on behalf of the Lesotho government. Wang Yi stated that in the development of AI, no country should fall behind. Developing countries, in particular, are entitled to their legitimate right to technological development. China’s initiative to establish the WAICO was to enhance the capacity building of Global South countries, enable all countries to embrace the trend of the new technological era, and promote the positive development of AI, and benefit all humanity.
Wang Yi stated that China’s diplomacy has always upheld the principle of equality among all countries regardless of size. Despite differences in land area and national size, China and Lesotho have always been strategic partners that trust and support each other. China will continue to support Lesotho in safeguarding its sovereignty, security, and development interests, encourage Chinese enterprises to invest and start businesses in Lesotho, welcome more characteristic products of Lesotho to enter the Chinese market, and promote bilateral relations towards broader fields and higher levels. China is a trustworthy good friend and partner of Africa. The Chinese side believes that there can be no modernization of the world without the modernization of Africa. The zero-tariff measure announced by President Xi Jinping has been implemented in Africa, and China stands ready to continue making its own efforts for the development and revitalization of African countries, including Lesotho.
Limpho Tau spoke highly of President Xi Jinping’s keynote speech at the 2026 World AI Conference, stating that Lesotho is very honored to be a founding member of the WAICO. Lesotho looks forward to actively participating in the construction of the organization, contributing to the country’s economic development, and safeguarding the common rights and interests of the Global South countries. Lesotho views China as a trustworthy strategic partner and sincerely thanks President Xi Jinping for the zero-tariff policy for African countries, as well as the valuable support China has long provided to African countries, including Lesotho, in infrastructure development and improving people’s livelihoods. Lesotho will continue to firmly adhere to the one-China principle. Lesotho stands ready to promote practical cooperation with China in various fields under the framework of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation, continuously enrich the connotation of the strategic partnership between the two countries, and jointly promote world peace and development.
Wang Yi Meets with Russian Deputy Chief of Staff of the Presidential Executive Office Maxim Oreshkin
July 17 (MFA) – On July 17, 2026, Member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and Foreign Minister Wang Yi met in Shanghai with Russian Deputy Chief of Staff of the Presidential Executive Office Maxim Oreshkin, who is in China for the 2026 World AI Conference.
Wang Yi welcomed Maxim Oreshkin’s participation in the conference and the Russian government’s signing of the agreement on the establishment of the World Artificial Intelligence Cooperation Organization (WAICO). Wang Yi stated that China and Russia are comprehensive strategic partners of coordination for the new era, and both sides have consistently supported and understood each other on international and regional affairs. Russia’s participation in the WAICO reflects the high level of China-Russia relations and will contribute to its future development. At the opening ceremony of the conference, President Xi Jinping comprehensively and systematically elaborated on China’s concepts and propositions, emphasizing that artificial intelligence should be developed for the good of humanity in a healthy, safe and orderly manner, which reflects the common expectations of the international community. China is willing to work with Russia to promote the healthier, safer, and more orderly development of artificial intelligence through consultation, joint contribution and shared benefits, enhance capacity building among Global South countries, and make AI a key growth driver of the China-Russia comprehensive strategic partnership of coordination for the new era.
Wang Yi stated that under the strategic guidance of President Xi Jinping and President Vladimir Putin, China-Russia relations have maintained strong resilience and vitality, with broad prospects for steady development. The mutual trust and friendship between the two heads of state serve as the fundamental guarantee for the development of bilateral relations. Both sides should take the important consensus reached by the two heads of state as their guide, anchor the goal of higher-quality development, pool synergies for deeper-level development, and strive to achieve still greater progress in the bilateral relationship.
On behalf of the Russian government, Maxim Oreshkin warmly congratulated the successful convening of the World AI Conference. He stated that President Xi Jinping’s keynote speech at the opening ceremony is of global significance, reflecting the Chinese side’s profound understanding and strategic vision for the development of artificial intelligence. The establishment of the WAICO is a major Chinese initiative benefiting the world. Russia highly appreciates the move and is pleased to become a founding member. Russia looks forward to working with China to jointly promote the development of the organization, expand cooperation in artificial intelligence, and inject new momentum into the Russia-China comprehensive strategic partnership of coordination for the new era. Russia is willing to work with China to jointly implement the consensus reached by the two heads of state, maintain close high-level exchanges, deepen practical cooperation, strengthen multilateral coordination and achieve mutual benefit and win-win results.
Wang Yi Meets with Indonesian Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto
July 18 (MFA) – On July 18, 2026, Member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and Foreign Minister Wang Yi met in Shanghai with Indonesian Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto, who is in China for the 2026 World Artificial Intelligence Conference.
Wang Yi welcomed Airlangga Hartarto’s special trip to China to attend the conference, stating that Indonesia becoming one of the founding members of the World Artificial Intelligence Cooperation Organization (WAICO) reflects the country’s positive attitude toward international cooperation on AI. WAICO is tailor-made for the Global South, aiming to prevent a new AI divide in the world. The development of artificial intelligence should serve all of humanity. Every country has the right to keep pace with the trend of technological development, serving its own people’s well-being and national revitalization. China stands ready to work with like-minded countries to advance AI development in an inclusive and universally beneficial direction. In particular, efforts should be made to enhance the voice and representation of developing countries, and work hand in hand to safeguard the legitimate rights and interests of the Global South.
Wang Yi emphasized that under the strategic guidance of the two heads of state, the building of the China-Indonesia community with a shared future has achieved positive progress in recent years. As representatives of the Global South and emerging economies, China and Indonesia share similar development goals, extensive common interests, and distinct complementary advantages. Both sides should strengthen the alignment of their development strategies, move toward each other, engage in positive interactions, exclude disruptions, maintain strategic focus, and continuously deepen mutually beneficial cooperation in various fields, setting an example of solidarity, mutual assistance, and joint self-reliance for the Global South. China appreciates Mr. Coordinating Minister’s reaffirmation of his welcome for Chinese enterprises to invest and cooperate in Indonesia, and hopes that Indonesia will provide a fair and equitable business environment for this purpose. China-Indonesia cooperation is not targeted at any third party, nor should it be interfered with by any third party. Both sides should take the lead in defending the multilateral trading system, jointly oppose “decoupling and severing of supply chains”, and safeguard the security and stability of global industrial and supply chains. China is willing to strengthen coordination with Indonesia in international and regional affairs, push forward the building of a China-Indonesia community with a shared future that carries regional and global influence, and contribute to the common development of both countries and humanity as a whole.
Airlangga Hartarto spoke highly of the strategic significance of President Xi Jinping’s keynote speech at the 2026 World Artificial Intelligence Conference, commended China’s global leadership in the AI field, and stated that Indonesia is honored to be a founding member of the WAICO. This organization will help the Global South deeply participate in global AI governance, jointly defend multilateralism, and safeguard the legitimate rights and interests of developing countries. Indonesia-China relations have developed steadily, yielding fruitful results in mutually beneficial cooperation. China has remained Indonesia’s largest trading partner and an important source of investment for many years. Indonesia highly appreciates the contributions made by Chinese enterprises to the building of Indonesia’s industrial and supply chains and to its technological progress. President Prabowo Subianto welcomes and invites more Chinese enterprises to invest in the country, and Indonesia will create a favorable business environment for enterprises from all countries, including China, to invest and operate. Indonesia looks forward to continuously expanding important Belt and Road cooperation projects with China, such as the “Two Countries, Twin Parks” project, further deepening trade and investment relations, creating synergies in economic development, and achieving new progress in mutually beneficial cooperation between the two countries, so as to deliver benefits to the people of both nations.
