Beijing has unveiled a new international platform focused on artificial intelligence (AI) governance, with 29 countries signing on. India, however, chose to stay away from the initiative, reflecting a cautious approach.
The body—named the World AI Cooperation Organization (WAICO)—was inaugurated by Chinese President Xi Jinping, with UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres attending the event. The organisation is expected to operate from Shanghai.
The China-backed framework is being viewed as a direct challenge to Western influence over global AI governance. Among the signatories are Russia and Pakistan, along with 10 African nations and 12 Asian nations.
Notably, all BRICS members except India have joined the new grouping. Reports also point to India’s participation in a US-led technology coalition, alongside countries such as the United States, the United Kingdom, Australia, the Philippines and Israel.
India is also said to be focusing on building its own capabilities, which is being cited as another reason for not joining the China-led AI governance arrangement.
