Chinese President Xi Jinping visits an AI incubator in east China’s Shanghai, April 29, 2025. /Xinhua
A New Era of AI Leadership
China is rapidly positioning itself as a global leader in artificial intelligence (AI), intertwining technological advancement with international collaboration. Recent initiatives highlight China’s commitment to not only advancing its own AI capabilities but also sharing these developments with the Global South.
Shanghai: The AI Innovation Hub
During a recent visit to Shanghai, President Xi Jinping emphasized the city’s pivotal role in China’s AI strategy. He encouraged the development of supportive policies and the exploration of AI models, underscoring Shanghai’s potential as a global technological and innovation center.
DeepSeek: Challenging the Status Quo
Chinese startup DeepSeek has garnered international attention by launching an AI reasoning model trained with less advanced chips, challenging the notion that high-end hardware is essential for cutting-edge AI development . This achievement underscores China’s innovative approach to AI, focusing on efficiency and accessibility.

Chinese President Xi Jinping visits the New Development Bank and meets with Dilma Rousseff, president of the institution, in east China’s Shanghai, April 29, 2025. /Xinhua
Global South: A Collaborative Future
China’s AI initiatives extend beyond its borders, aiming to bridge the digital divide by collaborating with countries in the Global South. The “AI Capacity-Building Action Plan for Good and for All,” proposed in September 2024, focuses on investing in AI education, professional training, and promoting AI literacy, with an emphasis on protecting digital rights for marginalized groups .
Governance and Ethical Considerations
Recognizing the global implications of AI, China launched the Global Artificial Intelligence Governance Initiative to address universal concerns over AI development and governance . This initiative seeks to foster international discussions and establish frameworks for responsible AI use.
A Call to Global Cooperation
China’s approach to AI development emphasizes inclusivity and shared growth. By fostering innovation at home and extending support to developing nations, China advocates for a collaborative future where AI benefits are universally accessible.
Curious about the future of AI and global collaboration? Explore how international partnerships are shaping the next wave of technological innovation. Dailyscitech