President Xi Jinping Pushes Shanghai to the Forefront of Tech Development
President Xi Jinping has called on Shanghai to accelerate its transformation into a global centre for technology and innovation, with a strong focus on artificial intelligence (AI). This marked Xi’s first visit to the city since November 2023, according to China’s state news agency Xinhua.
Xi emphasised that Shanghai, China’s top international financial hub, should also lead in AI development and governance. His comments highlight the growing importance of the city not only in finance but also as a strategic pillar in China’s push for technological self-reliance.
AI at the Heart of Shanghai’s Future
Xi visited an AI startup incubator during his trip, where he encouraged greater exploration of AI models. He stressed the need for more supportive policies to advance the technology. During the visit, he also tested a pair of smart glasses developed by one of the startups.
The president’s remarks come amid heightened economic and technological tensions between China and the United States. As the trade conflict continues, China is placing increased emphasis on innovation and emerging technologies like AI to secure long-term growth.
China’s recent AI breakthroughs, such as the launch of DeepSeek, are driving this renewed focus. Xi’s message to Shanghai is clear—China needs globally competitive innovation hubs, and Shanghai is expected to lead the charge.
Visit Highlights Strategic Global Ties
Xi also visited the Shanghai-based New Development Bank, which was founded by the BRICS nations—Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa. There, he met with the bank’s president, former Brazilian President Dilma Rousseff.
The visit underscores the city’s growing importance in not only domestic innovation but also in multilateral financial and technological cooperation.
with inputs from Reuters
