World AI Conference Kicks Off: Leaders Push for Global Rules on Smart Machines

SHANGHAI — The 2026 World AI Conference and High-Level Meeting on Global AI Governance opened today, drawing thousands of experts, tech executives, and government officials. The event focuses on setting international standards for artificial intelligence, as nations race to regulate the fast-growing technology. Organizers say the conference aims to balance innovation with safety. Topics include data privacy, job displacement, and the risk of autonomous weapons. “We need rules that keep AI helpful, not harmful,” one speaker noted. The meeting comes amid a global debate on how to control AI’s spread. Several countries have already proposed laws, but no single framework exists. The conference will run for three days, featuring exhibitions of new AI tools and closed-door talks on governance. Observers expect no binding agreements, but the event signals a growing urgency to coordinate policies worldwide.