UN Secretary-General António Guterres arrives in Shanghai for WAIC 2026 and Global AI Governance Meeting
When the leader of the global community arrives in a technology hub where the future of artificial intelligence is being discussed, it is not just a diplomatic event but a signal that AI regulation is moving into the practical realm. Guterres, who has repeatedly called for global technology governance, comes to Shanghai to take part in a dialogue that could shape how humanity coexists with intelligent machines. His presence underscores that issues of safety, ethics and accessibility require not national but global solutions.
On Thursday, UN Secretary-General António Guterres arrived in Shanghai to attend the 2026 World Artificial Intelligence Conference (WAIC) and the High-Level Meeting on Global AI Governance. At Shanghai Pudong International Airport, he was met by China's Permanent Representative to the United Nations and senior officials of the Shanghai municipal government. Guterres has repeatedly called for stronger global AI governance. In recent years, the UN has established two key mechanisms in this regard: the Global Dialogue on AI Governance and the International Scientific Group on AI. These platforms provide countries with important opportunities to improve communication, build consensus and expand cooperation. China firmly supports the international system with the UN at its centre and adheres to a human-centred, AI‑for‑good approach to strengthening AI governance within the UN framework.
WAIC, which this year runs from 17 to 20 July and marks its eighth edition, has solidified its role as a leading global AI platform. The event will feature more than 140 forums and a large‑scale exhibition showcasing over 3,000 cutting‑edge products. The aim is to create a comprehensive ecosystem that brings together global thought leaders with advanced technologies to build industry consensus and offer solutions for global governance.
The Shanghai WAIC has been held since 2018 and has become one of the world's most respected platforms in the field of artificial intelligence. This year, special attention is being paid to international regulation and AI ethics, reflecting growing global concern about the risks associated with technological development. As CCTV+ reports. Guterres is expected to deliver a keynote speech and hold bilateral meetings with Chinese officials during the conference, strengthening cooperation between the UN and China on AI governance.
