President Xi Jinping is spearheading China's AI diplomacy, offering developing nations open-source models and training through international "application co-operation centres." This initiative, highlighted at the World AI Conference in Shanghai, includes the establishment of the 29-member World AI Cooperation Organisation (Waico), aiming to build an alternative global order to the US-led west.

Analysts suggest this move positions China to lead in AI adoption and standard-setting, potentially influencing global values. It builds on earlier efforts like the "Digital Silk Road," which provided technological assistance to numerous countries. A significant development was the "Deep Seek moment" in January 2025, where a Chinese company challenged US dominance in large language models, increasing AI's prominence in China's diplomatic outreach.

China has already launched the China-ASEAN Countries Artificial Intelligence (AI) Application Cooperation Center and plans similar centres in Africa, the Middle East, and Latin America. Waico, whose members include Brics nations (excluding India), aims to export Chinese technology, contrasting with the US's Pax Silica coalition focused on supply chains. This strategy offers developing nations a compelling alternative to expensive US AI products, potentially leading to widespread adoption of Chinese technology.