China's Xi urges Shanghai to take lead in AI development

ISTANBUL

China's President Xi Jinping on Tuesday urged the country's coastal hub of Shanghai to take the lead in developing artificial intelligence.

"AI technology is evolving rapidly and entering a phase of explosive growth," said Xi, visiting the Shanghai Foundation Model Innovation Center in the metropolis.

The center, with over 100 firms, is a large model incubator for incubation and acceleration for large models of artificial intelligence, according to the state-run Xinhua News.

Xi said AI is entering a phase of "explosive growth" and called on Shanghai to boost exploration efforts and strive to lead AI development and governance.

His trip to the city followed last week’s meeting of a study group dedicated to AI during which Xi called for taking a head start in this important area.

Xi also visited the New Development Bank of the BRICS bloc in Shanghai.

BRICS was founded by Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, and last year added five new members.

The Chinese leader congratulated Dilma Rousseff on her reelection as bank president.

The foundation of New Development Bank is "a pioneering effort of the Global South to unite and strengthen itself," he said.

"It conforms to the historical trend of reforming and improving global governance and has grown into an emerging force in the international financial system and a golden signboard for cooperation in the global South," said the Chinese president.

He said the "collective rise of the Global South has become an important force in maintaining world peace, promoting common development, and improving global governance."

"No matter how the international situation changes, the general direction of human development and progress will not change," said Xi.