Chinese President Xi Jinping delivered a significant address at the 2026 World AI Conference in Shanghai, where he openly opposed US-led restrictions on AI technologies. Xi criticized broad national-security claims that could allow powerful nations to restrict AI access for others, portraying open-source AI as a strategic industrial policy and a tool for global governance. The conference coincided with the founding of the World Artificial Intelligence Cooperation Organization, a move that underscores China’s commitment to developing a cooperative technological ecosystem with the Global South. Xi also announced China’s plan to offer 5,000 AI research and training opportunities to developing countries over the next five years.
Key Takeaways
Xi’s speech appears to support a scenario where tensions with the US increase, suggesting a decreased likelihood of a US visit before 2027.
The pricing of the market “Will Xi Jinping visit US before 2027?” has adjusted, reflecting a drop in YES probabilities from 92% to 88.5% over 24 hours.
Xi’s advocacy for open-source AI and criticism of US policies suggest a hardening stance, consistent with a decrease in potential diplomatic engagements.
