BEIJING: The 2026 World Artificial Intelligence Conference (WAIC) marked a significant milestone in the evolution of global AI governance.
Beyond a showcase of cutting-edge technologies, the conference demonstrated how international cooperation, policy coordination and industrial innovation are increasingly converging. From pre-conference consensus building to major announcements during the event and practical implementation afterward, WAIC 2026 outlined a roadmap for building an inclusive, responsible and shared AI future.
One of the conference’s most notable achievements was the progress in global AI governance. On July 16, representatives from 29 countries signed the founding agreement of the World AI Cooperation Organization (WAICO) in Shanghai, where the organization will be headquartered. The establishment of WAICO signaled a new platform for international collaboration.
Meanwhile, the Global AI Capacity Development Network (AICDN), officially launched in Geneva on July 5, entered operational status. With Fudan University’s Global AI Innovation Governance Center as the Chinese member institution and co-leading the network’s preparatory work with counterparts from Senegal, India and other nations, the network now connects partners across 19 countries and international organizations, aiming to narrow the global AI capability gap through knowledge sharing, talent development and technical cooperation. –The Daily Mail-CGTN news exchange item
