Xi to Headline China AI Summit as US Tech Rivalry Intensifies Sharply

Chinese President Xi Jinping is set to attend China's flagship artificial intelligence conference for the first time, highlighting Beijing's growing focus on AI as a key driver of future economic growth and technological leadership.

His participation comes at a time when competition between China and the United States over AI and advanced technologies continues to intensify.

Xi's appearance at the World Artificial Intelligence Conference (WAIC) in Shanghai reflects China's determination to strengthen its AI capabilities while promoting global cooperation on the technology.

The event is expected to bring together government leaders, technology companies, researchers and investors from around the world to discuss the future of AI.

• Xi to headline China AI summit as US tech rivalry intensifies
• Xi Jinping to attend WAIC highlighting China's AI ambitions
• China showcases AI leadership as Xi joins flagship technology conference

China Strengthens Its AI Ambitions

Xi's participation sends a strong message that artificial intelligence has become one of China's top national priorities. Over the years, the World Artificial Intelligence Conference has grown into one of the country's biggest technology events, showcasing the latest developments in AI, robotics, smart manufacturing and large language models.

This year's conference is expected to feature more than 1,100 exhibitors and over 3,000 AI products and solutions. Organisers say hundreds of new technologies will be unveiled during the event, highlighting the rapid pace of innovation taking place across China's AI industry.

China has stepped up investment in domestic AI technologies as US export restrictions on AI chips continue to reshape the global technology landscape. Chinese companies are expanding efforts to develop homegrown AI chips, computing infrastructure and software platforms to reduce reliance on overseas suppliers and strengthen the country's technology ecosystem.

Global AI Competition Takes Centre Stage

While technology demonstrations remain a major attraction, this year's conference will also focus on AI governance, safety and international cooperation. Chinese officials have repeatedly called for a global framework that allows countries to benefit from AI development while ensuring the technology is used responsibly.

The event is expected to highlight China's growing network of AI startups alongside established technology companies that are developing competitive AI models and intelligent computing solutions. Visitors will also see advancements in robotics, embodied AI and industrial applications that are helping businesses improve productivity and efficiency.

Xi's presence adds greater significance to this year's conference as AI becomes increasingly important to national security, economic growth and global competitiveness. His participation reflects China's broader strategy of positioning itself as a leading force in AI innovation while playing an active role in shaping international discussions on the technology.

The conference is also expected to create new opportunities for partnerships between technology companies, research institutions and investors. These collaborations could help speed up AI research, product development and commercial adoption in the years ahead.

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As countries race to lead the next generation of AI innovation, the World Artificial Intelligence Conference is expected to play an important role in shaping industry trends and global policy discussions. Xi's debut at the event highlights China's long-term commitment to advancing AI and expanding its influence in one of the world's fastest-growing technology sectors.