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Why WAIC 2025 Will Change AI Forever

The World Artificial Intelligence Conference (WAIC) 2025 in Shanghai is one of the most important gatherings for artificial intelligence in the world. With the theme “Global Solidarity in the AI Era,” it invites leaders, scientists, and innovators to come together and shape the future of AI, underlining not just its rapid progress, but also the shared responsibility for developing it wisely.

Building Trust in the Age of Intelligent Machines

As AI becomes an even bigger part of our lives, its impact goes well beyond technology. At WAIC 2025, the idea of AI governance is at the heart of every conversation. This means carefully thinking about how we manage, guide, and improve AI for everyone’s good.

Experts from around the world will discuss urgent topics such as how to protect people’s data and privacy, how to make AI systems more understandable, and how to handle the changes AI brings to the workplace. These talks are crucial — not just for spreading technology, but for ensuring it is used fairly and safely across different countries and cultures. WAIC recognizes that the journey toward responsible AI cannot succeed without cooperation among people from every part of the globe, regardless of background or perspective.

Earlier this year, the Shanghai Forum brought together leaders who emphasized the importance of protecting human rights, ensuring organizations and creators are accountable, and building a foundation for sustainable AI. Both the European Union and Chinese experts have shaped this dialogue, stressing that rules, ethics, and the careful use of data must guide AI’s future.

WAIC’s Unprecedented Scale and Vision

WAIC 2025 will be the largest event in its history. From July 26th to 28th, and with exhibitions through the 29th, the Shanghai World Expo Center will be transformed into a showcase for what is possible in the age of intelligent machines.

  • Expansive Exhibitions: The conference will cover 70,000 square meters—more than ever before.
  • Global Community: Over 1,200 experts and more than 800 companies will participate, sharing the latest ideas and products from every corner of the world.
  • Technological Wonders: Attendees can discover over 40 large language models, more than 50 AI-powered devices, and at least 60 intelligent robots. These innovations are reshaping industries such as healthcare, finance, transportation, and education.
  • Cutting-Edge Topics: Sessions and exhibits will explore AI chips and hardware, smart cities, medical breakthroughs, and even the future of virtual worlds—offering a glimpse into how deeply AI will touch our lives.

The Spirit of the Shanghai Declaration

WAIC is not just a showcase of technology, but a call to action. A highlight of past conferences is the creation of the Shanghai Declaration on Global AI Governance. This important document highlights five essential commitments:

  1. Advance AI research for the good of society, improving life in healthcare, education, transportation, and more.
  2. Encourage creativity and collaboration among different fields, pushing AI to help solve real-world problems.
  3. Closely watch how AI changes jobs, guiding its use to improve work for everyone.
  4. Support open sharing and cooperation, so that progress in AI benefits all communities equally.
  5. Champion the need for high-quality, secure data, with fairness at the center of AI training and development.

This pledge is a reminder that while AI holds enormous promise, it comes with responsibilities shared by all — from governments and companies, to researchers and citizens.

A Turning Point for AI and Humanity

WAIC 2025 will be more than an event; it is a reflection of our collective hope and care for the future. As we witness stunning advancements in artificial intelligence, the gathering in Shanghai reminds us that progress must be guided by wisdom, inclusiveness, and a sense of responsibility toward each other.

By focusing on both new technology and strong governance, WAIC charts a path where AI can truly serve humanity—helping us grow, connect, and thrive in the years to come.