Aug 01 (v7n) - Bangladesh has decided to join the newly established World Artificial Intelligence Cooperation Organization (WAICO) as an observer, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced today.
The government took the decision to engage with the Shanghai-based intergovernmental body, which was founded on July 16, 2026, with the aim of strengthening global collaboration on artificial intelligence.
According to the ministry, WAICO seeks to deepen international cooperation on AI innovation, promote inclusive development by bridging the digital divide, foster an open and non-discriminatory environment for AI advancement, and encourage regulations that ensure the technology remains safe and beneficial for humanity. The organization also aims to advance global governance on AI to support its healthy, orderly, and equitable development.
WAICO was formally established when representatives from 29 countries signed its founding agreement in Shanghai on July 16. Founding members include China, Kazakhstan, Laos, Pakistan, Russia, Indonesia, and others.
United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres attended the signing ceremony alongside delegates from participating nations and international organizations.
Under its founding agreement, WAICO will uphold the principles of the UN Charter, promote inclusive consultation and shared benefits, and adopt a people-centered approach in advancing global AI cooperation.
end/aj/rh/
