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China's AI Governance Approach and Southeast Asia Outreach
China's AI Governance and Development Strategy
In January 2025, Chinese AI startup DeepSeek launched its R1 model, sparking debate over how open-source, cost-effective models can reshape the global AI landscape. Chinese state media hailed it as the 'DeepSeek moment,' emphasizing 'paradigm innovation' and a 'distinct Chinese solution' to AI global governance focused on bridging AI gaps and promoting cooperation. In April of the same year, President Xi Jinping stressed the necessity of 'improving AI governance mechanisms and firmly maintaining initiative in AI development and governance' during a Politburo study session, underscoring Beijing’s dual emphasis on development and control.
AI Cooperation Initiatives with Southeast Asia
As economic ties between China and ASEAN countries grew, Beijing identified AI cooperation as a pillar of bilateral relations. Chinese policy discourse portrays China-ASEAN AI cooperation as transitioning from technology exchanges to 'substantial joint governance,' systematically integrating the 'China Approach' and the 'ASEAN Way.' In July 2023, China’s Ministry of Science and Technology (MOST) released the 'Initiative on Artificial Intelligence Development Cooperation for ASEAN,' outlining plans to deepen bilateral exchanges in AI regulatory policies and governance principles. In September 2025, MOST further unveiled the 'Three-Year Action Plan (2025–2027) for Enhancing Science and Technology Capacity through AI-Enabled Development Cooperation for ASEAN,' calling for an innovative cooperation ecosystem for capacity building, talent exchange, and the establishment of joint laboratories.
*Source: Eurasia Review (2026-05-03)*
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