Chinese Premier Li Qiang has called for accelerated efforts to advance artificial intelligence (AI) innovation and application, positioning the technology as a cornerstone of China's economic strategy this year. Speaking at a State Council group study session on February 11, 2026, Li emphasized the need to strengthen breakthroughs across AI's entire industrial chain while improving governance frameworks to ensure ethical development.
"China must accurately grasp AI development trends and unlock its potential through broad implementation in diverse scenarios," Li stated, highlighting plans to integrate AI with key sectors such as manufacturing, healthcare, and urban management. The premier stressed the importance of coordinating resources like data infrastructure and computing power, while expanding international technology exchanges to maintain global competitiveness.
Zhou Bowen, head of the Shanghai Artificial Intelligence Laboratory, provided technical insights during the session, with senior officials including Vice Premiers Ding Xuexiang and Zhang Guoqing participating in strategy discussions. The meeting concluded with directives to cultivate specialized talent pools and establish clearer standards for AI ethics and safety.
This push aligns with China's broader 2026 agenda to develop "new quality productive forces" through technological modernization, building on recent advancements in smart manufacturing and autonomous systems across the Chinese mainland.
