China’s Xi urges AI cooperation, rejects ‘Cold War mentality’ at SCO summit

TIANJIN, China — Chinese President Xi Jinping emphasized the importance of strengthening artificial intelligence cooperation among members of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization, while also denouncing what he referred to as a “Cold War mentality.”

Xi’s remarks were delivered at the largest-ever summit of the SCO, with over 20 foreign leaders in attendance, including Russian President Vladimir Putin and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Against the backdrop of ongoing trade tensions and conflicts in various regions, China aims to position itself as a global peacemaker.

The summit coincides with trade disputes with the United States, the prolonged Russia-Ukraine war, and the repercussions of the Israel-Hamas conflict. Despite these challenges, Xi announced China’s $84 billion investment in other SCO countries and pledged support for 10,000 students in Beijing’s “Luban” vocational education program. He emphasized the opportunity for the SCO gathering to drive high-quality development and collaboration.

While the outcome of the summit’s discussions on tension alleviation remains uncertain, Xi is scheduled to meet with Putin during the week, culminating in a military parade in Beijing commemorating 80 years since the end of World War II.

During the past two days, Xi engaged with leaders from at least 10 visiting countries, including Turkey’s President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and Cambodia’s Prime Minister Hun Manet, who are attending the SCO summit.

A meeting between Xi and Modi on Saturday underscored the significance of partnership over rivalry, as both sides emphasized the need for a stable relationship and cooperation based on mutual respect, interest, and sensitivity.

The summit is anticipated to issue a joint statement at the conclusion of the two-day event. China’s Foreign Minister Wang Yi is set to hold a press conference on Monday evening local time to discuss the summit’s outcomes.