NEWS: At the 2026 World Artificial Intelligence Conference (WAIC) in Shanghai, China officially launched the World AI Cooperation Organization (WAICO) to promote global AI cooperation and governance.
About WAICO
- Nature: Independent intergovernmental organization headquartered in Shanghai, China.
- Established: Proposed at WAIC 2025; formally established in 2026 through an agreement signed by 29 countries.
- Objective: Promote inclusive AI development, technology sharing, and capacity building, especially for developing countries and the Global South.
- Focus: Ensure AI benefits are accessible through consultation, joint contribution, and shared benefit.
Key Features
- China will provide 5,000 AI training opportunities and research projects over the next five years for countries in ASEAN, African Union, BRICS, and SCO.
- Promotes open-source AI models (e.g., DeepSeek) and AI infrastructure sharing.
- Emphasizes state-led AI governance, cyber sovereignty, and government oversight.
Concerns
- May promote Chinese AI standards and expand China's geopolitical influence through Digital Silk Road initiatives.
- Raises concerns over digital authoritarianism, data dependence, and strategic reliance on Chinese AI infrastructure.
WAICO vs India's AI Approach
- WAICO: State-led governance, AI sovereignty, Global South cooperation.
- India ("AI for All"): Inclusive growth, trusted AI, Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI), open innovation through the IndiaAI Mission, while balancing innovation with responsible AI governance.