World AI Conference: Myanmar delegation attended the conference in China

The Myanmar delegation, led by Union Minister for Digital Development and Communication U Mya Tun Oo, arrived back in Yangon on July 19, after attending the 2026 World Artificial Intelligence Conference and its related meeting in Shanghai, the People’s Republic of China. During the visit, the Union Minister attended a dinner hosted by Chinese President Xi Jinping at the Shanghai Grand Hall on July 16, together with heads of delegations from participating countries. On the same day, the Union Minister attended the signing ceremony for the Agreement on the Establishment of the World Artificial Intelligence Cooperation Organization (WAICO). Representatives from 29 countries, including Myanmar, signed the agreement, during the ceremony. On July 17, the Myanmar delegation attended the opening ceremony of 2026 World Artificial Intelligence Conference at the Shanghai Expo Center, with discussions and sessions on various AI-related sectors and global cooperation. Subsequently, the Union Minister attended the pre-negotiation meeting for the establishment of WAICO at the Shanghai International Convention Center. He stated that the successful establishment of WAICO would be an important milestone in strengthening global cooperation and consensus in the AI sector. The Union Minister emphasized that WAICO should become an organization that promotes ethical, inclusive, and sustainable AI development. He highlighted the importance of practical cooperation in reducing the AI gap, enhancing cybersecurity, and addressing challenges such as misinformation. He also expressed Myanmar’s commitment to working closely with member countries to ensure that AI technology improves human capabilities, supports global prosperity, and strengthens security. The delegates later visited AI exhibitions at the Shanghai Expo Center and explored AI technologies and innovations. On July 18, the Union Minister attended the High-Level Meeting on Partnership for Better Global AI Governance under the theme “AI Partnership for a Better Future” and delivered a keynote speech. He emphasized the importance of creating an open, inclusive, ethical, and responsible AI governance framework that respects national sovereignty. He reaffirmed Myanmar’s commitment to working with international partners to develop human-centered AI systems and promote safe, responsible, and sustainable AI development. While attending the conference, the Union Minister met with a delegation led by the Head of the Data Bureau of Guangxi Province at the Grand Central Hotel Shanghai on July 16. During the meeting, they discussed AI cooperation projects under the China-ASEAN AI Cooperation Program, cooperation opportunities with Myanmar and future development plans. Approximately 1,400 participants, including leaders from various countries, representatives of international organizations, AI experts and scholars attended the conference.