South Africa, China strengthen AI and scientific cooperation at World Artificial Intelligence Conference

South Africa and China have reaffirmed their commitment to expanding cooperation in science, technology and artificial intelligence following a high-level bilateral meeting held on the sidelines of the 2026 World Artificial Intelligence Conference (WAIC) in east China's Shanghai.

South Africa's Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation, Blade Nzimande, met with China's Minister of Science and Technology, Yin Hejun, to discuss new opportunities for collaboration across a range of strategic sectors. The meeting underscored the growing importance of scientific and technological partnerships between the two countries as they work to address shared development challenges and foster innovation-driven growth.

A key outcome of the discussions was South Africa's reaffirmation of its support for the newly launched World Artificial Intelligence Cooperation Organization (WAICO). As one of the organization's founding members, South Africa welcomed the initiative as a platform for promoting international cooperation in the responsible development and governance of artificial intelligence.

Nzimande praised Chinese President Xi Jinping's opening address at WAIC, describing it as a thoughtful contribution to global discussions on AI development and international cooperation. He reiterated South Africa's commitment to supporting the operationalization of WAICO and strengthening multilateral collaboration in emerging technologies.

The meeting reflects the steady expansion of China-South Africa cooperation beyond traditional sectors such as trade and infrastructure into emerging technologies, scientific research and innovation. As both countries continue to invest in artificial intelligence and advanced science, their partnership is expected to contribute to technological advancement, skills development and sustainable economic growth for both nations.