Xi Jinping asks AI to remain under human control, rejects concept of excessive security

Chinese President Xi Jinping. (Xinhua file photo)

SHANGHAI - Chinese President Xi Jinping has stressed that artificial intelligence or AI must remain under human control. He also rejected the excessive expansion of the concept of national security and the placement of one country's security above the security of other countries.

China Daily, quoted on Friday, July 17, said the statement was made by Xi when opening the World AI Conference 2026 and the Global AI Governance High-Level Meeting in Shanghai, China, Friday.

Xi expressed four views on the direction of AI development and governance. He placed openness, security, cultural diversity, and global cooperation as the main basis.

The first perspective concerns openness and mutually beneficial cooperation. According to Xi, the development of AI needs to be driven through open source technology, collaboration, and knowledge sharing.

This step is considered important to encourage technological innovation, industrial development, and the application of AI in various fields.

The second view highlights risks and security. Xi asked all parties to ensure that AI remains safe, controllable, and not out of human control.

He also rejected the excessive expansion of the concept of national security in the field of AI. According to Xi, one country should not put its own security above the security of other countries.

The third view relates to the diversity of civilizations. Xi assessed that the development and use of AI should not erode the diversity of the world's cultures or eliminate the characteristics of each country.

The fourth perspective emphasizes solidarity and global governance. Xi said the important role of the United Nations needs to be recognized in global AI governance.

He also called for the coordination of development strategies, governance rules, and technical standards between countries.

Xi also called for international cooperation to help Global South countries strengthen their capacity in developing and using AI.

Global South is a term that generally refers to developing countries in Asia, Africa, Latin America, and a number of other regions.

"We must carry out extensive international cooperation and help Global South countries strengthen their capacity to narrow the AI and digital gap," Xi said.

According to Xi, the move is necessary to promote sustainable development and prevent the development of AI from giving birth to new forms of injustice.