Artificial intelligence is widely regarded as one of the defining technologies of our time. Like the steam engine, the harnessing of electricity and the internet before it, it has the potential to transform how we work, live and interact.

But every technological revolution brings challenges as well as opportunities. As AI systems become more capable, people are asking legitimate questions. How can AI remain safe, accountable and under human control? How should its development be governed? How can its benefits be shared more widely?

These questions were at the heart of the 2026 World AI Conference, held last week in Shanghai. Representatives from more than 100 countries and international organisations gathered to discuss how AI could better serve humanity, and how a more inclusive and effective global governance framework could be built. I am glad the UK also sent a delegation to the conference.

China’s president, Xi Jinping, delivered an important address calling on all countries to “boost innovation-driven development”, in a spirit of openness and mutual benefit, to strengthen risk-awareness and ensure that AI is secure and controllable. We must, he said, encourage inclusiveness and promote mutual learning between civilisations. He also stressed the importance of improving........

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