Chinese Prime Minister Li Qiang has called for the nation to unite in advancing the development and security of rapidly evolving technologies, following the U.S.’s recent announcement regarding industry registrations.

Speaking at the annual World Artificial Intelligence Conference (WAIC) in Shanghai, Li referred to AI as a fresh engine for economic growth, highlighting the disjointed governance of the technology and advocating for improved international cooperation to establish a universally recognized AI framework.

On Saturday, Li cautioned that the advancement of artificial intelligence must be balanced against security concerns, emphasizing the urgent need for a global consensus.

His statements followed the announcement from President Donald Trump about a proactive low-regulation approach aimed at solidifying control in swiftly evolving sectors. One executive order specifically targeted what the White House termed an “awakening” AI model.

While addressing the World AI Conference, Li stressed the importance of governance and the promotion of open-source development.

“The risks and challenges associated with artificial intelligence have garnered significant attention. Finding a balance between progress and security necessitates a broader consensus from society,” the Prime Minister stated.

Li asserted that China would “actively promote” open-source AI development, expressing willingness to share advancements with other nations, particularly those in the Global South.

The three-day conference positioned AI as a critical battleground, as industry leaders and policymakers from the two largest global economies faced off in a growing technological rivalry between China and the U.S.

Washington has implemented export restrictions on advanced technologies to China, including high-end AI chips from companies like NVIDIA, citing concerns that such technologies could enhance China’s military capabilities.

Although Li did not specifically mention the U.S. in her address, she cautioned that AI could become an “exclusive game” for certain nations and corporations, highlighting issues such as a shortage of AI chips and limitations on the exchange of talent.

As AI is integrated across numerous industries, its applications have raised significant ethical concerns, ranging from misinformation dissemination to employment impacts and the potential for loss of technical oversight.

Earlier this week, news organizations alerted online audiences about the “devastating effects” of AI-generated summaries replacing traditional search results.

The World AI Conference is an annual government-sponsored gathering in Shanghai that typically draws participants from various sectors, including industry players, government representatives, researchers, and investors.

Speakers at the event included ANE Bouverot, the AI envoy for the French President, computer scientist Geoffrey Hinton, known as “The Godfather of AI,” and former Google CEO Eric Schmidt.

Tesla CEO Elon Musk did not participate this year, although he has been a regular speaker at both in-person and video openings in previous years.

The exhibition showcased Chinese tech corporations like Huawei and Alibaba, along with startups such as humanoid robot maker Unitree. Western participants included Tesla, Alphabet, and Amazon.

Reuters and Assen France Press