India-China Collaboration on Global AI Governance
Recent developments in 2025 mark a very important moment in India-China relations. Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to China for the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit in Tianjin is the first since the Galwan Valley clash. Beyond diplomatic recalibration, this visit aims to encourage cooperation on artificial intelligence (AI) governance. Both nations seek to influence global AI rules, reflecting the interests of the Global South rather than just the Western world.
Context of India-China Relations
India and China have faced geopolitical tensions, especially after border conflicts. Despite mistrust, both countries recognise the strategic value of working together. The SCO summit offers a platform to prioritise economic ties and emerging technologies over disputes. AI is a key area of focus given its growing global importance.
Significance of AI in Global Governance
Artificial intelligence is central to the next industrial revolution. It impacts sectors like healthcare, agriculture, education, and manufacturing. While AI promises growth and innovation, it also raises ethical and geopolitical concerns. Currently, Western countries dominate AI governance frameworks through entities like OECD, G7, EU, and the UN. The Global South lacks a unified voice in shaping AI rules.
India’s AI Initiatives and Vision
India’s AI market is rapidly expanding, expected to reach $8 billion by 2025 with over 40% annual growth. Government programmes such as IndiaAI Mission (2024), National Strategy for AI (2018), and AI for India 2.0 (2023) focus on ethical AI use, inclusivity, and skill development. India champions equitable AI access, especially for developing nations, and actively participates in global partnerships like the Global Partnership on Artificial Intelligence (GPAI).
China’s AI Leadership and Governance
China aims to be the global AI leader by 2030, with a core AI industry valued over USD 140 billion. It has established comprehensive AI governance frameworks emphasising fairness, security, and inclusivity. Initiatives like the Global AI Governance Initiative (2023) and Shanghai Declaration (2024) promote South-South cooperation and equitable AI benefits. China treats AI as an international public good with priorities including data access and safety standards.
Potential for India-China AI Cooperation
Despite political differences, India and China have strong incentives to collaborate on AI governance. India’s focus on ethics and inclusivity complements China’s industrial strength and infrastructure. Both advocate for AI policies that reflect developing countries’ realities. Shared goals include reducing the digital divide, promoting fair data sharing, and supporting sustainable development.
Future Prospects
A bilateral AI task force could focus on ethics, safety, and technology transfer. Co-hosting a Global South AI Forum under the United Nations could amplify their collective voice in global AI negotiations. This partnership could prevent AI governance from being dominated solely by the Global North. Together, they can establish an AI order that is inclusive, diverse, and aligned with global societal needs.
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