Xi Jinping is spearheading China’s push on artificial intelligence, with the Chinese president stressing what he described as the ‘positive’ use of the technology. The message comes as Beijing tries to expand its influence over the standards that could shape how AI is developed and governed.
The focus on standards points to a broader strategy. Beyond building domestic AI capabilities, China appears intent on playing a larger role in defining the technical and policy frameworks that guide the sector.
Xi’s emphasis also shows how closely AI is tied to state priorities in China. Presenting the technology as something that should serve constructive purposes helps align innovation with wider political and strategic goals.
The development highlights the growing international contest over who will set the rules for artificial intelligence. As AI becomes more central to economies and governments, influence over standards is emerging as a key part of global technology competition.
