Xi launches ‘open and inclusive’ open-source AI initiative for BRICS

Source: Agenzia ANSA | Original Published At: 2026-09-13 00:00:00 UTC

Key Points

• Xi Jinping proposed an open-source AI zone for BRICS countries during the BRICS summit in New Delhi.
• The initiative includes cooperation on developing and applying large language models, specialized seminars, training courses, and an open AI ecosystem.
• The proposal is framed as contrasting with the proprietary software model associated with the United States amid intensifying US-China technological competition.
• Xi invited BRICS countries to actively participate in the World Artificial Intelligence Cooperation Organization, which has 29 members including Russia and China.
• The article notes that BRICS is not politically homogeneous, leaving uncertain whether members such as India will join the initiative.
• Open-source AI is described as potentially lower-cost and as a possible instrument of soft power for Beijing.