On December 20, 2024, China unveiled its 'AI Capacity Building and Inclusiveness Plan' aimed at enhancing artificial intelligence collaboration with countries in the Global South. This initiative, launched by Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi during a United Nations meeting, seeks to promote data sharing, AI technology production, and educational exchanges.
The plan is positioned as a counter to U.S. dominance in AI technology, emphasizing inclusivity and accessibility. Wang Yi criticized the U.S. for using high-tech export restrictions to maintain its global hegemony, asserting that AI should not serve as a tool for power but rather benefit humanity.
China's strategy includes creating joint AI laboratories and fostering an open-source AI community. The initiative aligns with the country's broader geopolitical goals, as it seeks to expand its influence in developing nations through technology and infrastructure collaborations.
Furthermore, China has partnered with Zambia for the launch of this AI initiative, reflecting its historical ties and investments in the African nation. This cooperation is part of China's ongoing efforts to lead the developing world in technology and innovation.
Chinese tech leaders see open-source large language models (LLMs) as a critical area for growth, with the potential to establish China as a leader in AI technology. The country has already made significant strides in developing LLMs that are more affordable and efficient for East Asian languages compared to Western alternatives.
As the U.S.-China rivalry intensifies, this development in AI represents a significant shift in the global balance of technological power, with China positioning itself as a key player in the future of AI on a global scale.