RRI.CO.ID, Shanghai – Indonesia is ready to collaborate with the World Artificial Intelligence Cooperation Organization (WAICO) to develop a global AI ecosystem. Indonesia's Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto, made the statement during a dialogue with Chinese President Xi Jinping at the Opening Ceremony of the World Artificial Intelligence Conference (WAIC) 2026 in Shanghai, China, Friday, July 17, 2026.

He stated that Indonesia deeply appreciates China’s initiative to establish WAICO. Indonesia is also grateful for the trust placed in the country to join as one of the Founding Member States of this world-class AI organization.

“We convey greetings from the President of Indonesia, Mr. Prabowo Subianto, and express our gratitude to the Chinese government for taking the initiative to establish WAICO and inviting Indonesia to become a Founding Member State. Indonesia is ready to collaborate with WAICO to develop the global AI ecosystem,” Airlangga said, as quoted in a ministry press release.

Meanwhile, at the WAIC 2026 Opening Ceremony, President Xi affirmed that AI development must serve as a tool to enhance human well-being. In his view, AI development should not be the monopoly of a single country but rather a collaborative effort involving all nations worldwide.

“AI development should not be a ‘solo performance’ by a single country, but rather a ‘symphony of global collaboration,’” he said.

To realize this vision, an open-source AI platform will be developed that can be utilized and collaboratively enhanced by various countries. In addition, China will organize capacity-building programs for millions of participants over the next five years to narrow the digital capacity gap.

On the same occasion, United Nations (UN) Secretary-General Antonio Guterres expressed his appreciation for the initiative to establish WAICO. He said the organization is expected to serve as a platform for international cooperation capable of driving the development of AI technology to support the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

For Indonesia, the initiative to join WAICO is a follow-up to President Prabowo’s direct directive to promote the development and utilization of AI in Indonesia. President Prabowo views digital transformation and technological mastery as key foundations for improving public welfare and strengthening national competitiveness.