UN Secretary-General António Guterres addressed the opening ceremony of the World Artificial Intelligence Conference (WAIC) in Shanghai on Friday, July 17, 2026, emphasizing the need for global cooperation in artificial intelligence (AI) governance. He described AI as “humanity's greatest opportunity in the 21st century” but warned it could also pose significant risks if governed by only a few countries or companies.

“Technology that will shape the future of humanity must be shaped by all of humanity,” Guterres said, stressing that “every nation needs a seat at the table.” He cautioned that without international cooperation, AI could exacerbate global inequality rather than advance sustainable development.

Highlighting the UN's recent efforts, Guterres pointed to the adoption of the Global Digital Compact and the formation of the Independent International Scientific Panel on AI, the first global scientific panel on the technology. Earlier in July, the first session of the Global Dialogue on AI Governance was held in Geneva to foster open and inclusive discussions.

Guterres called for practical support to turn commitments into action so all countries can benefit from AI's rapid development. He noted AI's potential to accelerate medical breakthroughs, transform education, strengthen food systems, create jobs, and drive progress toward the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

More than 20 countries, including China, have nominated centers for a UN-supported Global Network for Exchange and Cooperation on AI Capacity Building. Guterres emphasized that developing countries should have the tools to build AI systems using their own data, languages, and expertise. He also urged governments to adopt common approaches to testing and risk management grounded in international law.

Sources

UN News: Guterres: AI must be shaped by 'all of humanity', not a handful of powers