Xi Jinping Seeks to Boost Influence Through AI Cooperation at SCO Summit

TIANJIN, China – Chinese President Xi Jinping on Monday called on members of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) to strengthen collaboration in artificial intelligence (AI), while rejecting what he described as a “Cold War mentality.”

Speaking at the largest SCO summit to date, which brought together more than 20 foreign leaders, including Russian President Vladimir Putin and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Xi highlighted the need for deeper technological and economic partnerships among member states.

China Positions Itself as a Global Peacemaker

The meeting comes as China aims to present itself as a mediator on the world stage, against the backdrop of trade tensions with the United States, Russia’s ongoing war in Ukraine, and the Israel-Hamas conflict.

Xi revealed that China has invested $84 billion in other SCO countries and pledged to support 10,000 students through the Beijing-based “Luban” vocational education program. He said the summit marked an opportunity to chart a new phase of high-quality development and cooperation within the bloc.

Key Bilateral Engagements During the Summit

Ahead of his remarks, Xi posed for a group photo with Modi and Putin, alongside other SCO leaders. The Chinese president is expected to meet Putin later this week, with the Russian leader scheduled to remain in China for a military parade commemorating the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II.

Over the weekend, Xi held talks with at least 10 visiting leaders, including Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet. On Saturday, he met Modi, where both sides reaffirmed the importance of partnership over rivalry.

India’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated: “A stable relationship and cooperation based on mutual respect, mutual interest, and mutual sensitivity are essential for the growth and development of both countries and their 2.8 billion people.”

Will the SCO Summit Lead to a Breakthrough?

Analysts believe improving ties with India could bolster China’s regional influence. Marko Papic, Chief Strategist at GeoMacro Strategy BCA Access, noted: “Strengthening relations with India is a big deal. It allows India to access critical intellectual property it needs for industrialization and manufacturing.”

Henry Huiyao Wang, President of the Center for China and Globalization, emphasized China’s proactive approach to economic cooperation and peace efforts, expressing hope that India and Pakistan would also rebuild ties.

Observers say the SCO summit could help China deepen ties with multiple countries, particularly as a mediator in global conflicts. The two-day meeting is expected to conclude with a joint statement, while Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi will hold a press briefing later today.