Xi emphasizes AI self-reliance, Global South ties amid US trade tensions

Chinese President Xi Jinping has called for greater self-reliance and innovation in artificial intelligence, emphasizing the urgency for China to close the technology gap with the United States amid escalating trade tensions. During recent visits and public comments, Xi highlighted China's strategy to leverage its extensive data resources, robust industrial base, and large market to advance AI development and foster domestic expertise. He urged Shanghai to transform into a global technological hub, accelerate AI research, and implement policies supporting the industry's growth. Xi also reinforced China's commitment to the Global South, positioning the country as an alternative to the US-led global order by strengthening ties and sharing development experiences with emerging economies. These moves are seen as a demonstration of China's resilience in the face of US tariffs and restrictions, with progress in domestic AI startups like DeepSeek cited as evidence of overcoming external constraints. Xi further called for increased policy support, regulatory frameworks for AI safety, and international cooperation outside US influence.