By Tenzin Chokyi

DHARAMSALA, 17 July: China has taken another step toward shaping global artificial intelligence governance after 29 countries signed an agreement in Shanghai on Thursday establishing the World Artificial Intelligence Cooperation Organisation (WAICO), an intergovernmental body headquartered in the Chinese financial hub.

The agreement was signed by representatives from countries including Russia, Pakistan, Kazakhstan, Laos and Indonesia, with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi signing on behalf of Beijing. United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres attended the signing ceremony alongside representatives of participating countries and international organisations.

According to the agreement, WAICO will uphold the purposes and principles of the UN Charter, promote extensive consultation and shared benefit through a people-centered approach, and strengthen international cooperation on artificial intelligence w...