The Myanmar delegation, led by Minister of Information and Digital Communications U Mya Tun Oo, returned to Yangon on 19 July after taking part in the World AI Conference 2026 and related meetings in Shanghai, China. During the visit Myanmar participated in the signing ceremony that established the World AI Cooperation Organization (WAICO), an agreement signed by representatives from 29 countries.
At the World AI Conference: WAICO signing and state-level meetings
On 16 July the minister attended a state dinner hosted by Chinese President Xi Jinping at the Shanghai Grand Hall alongside other heads of delegation. That same day he joined the signing ceremony for the agreement establishing WAICO, presented as a new platform for international AI cooperation. Delegates from 29 countries signed the accord. On 17 July the delegation attended the official opening of the World AI Conference at the Shanghai Expo Center, which featured sessions across multiple sectors on AI and international cooperation.
Myanmar’s stated priorities for WAICO
At a preparatory meeting for WAICO held at the Shanghai International Convention Center, Minister Mya Tun Oo described the organization’s creation as an important milestone for strengthening global consensus and cooperation on AI. He emphasized that WAICO should promote ethical, inclusive and sustainable AI development, foster practical cooperation to reduce technological inequality, enhance cybersecurity and combat disinformation. The minister also reaffirmed Myanmar’s commitment to working with member countries so that AI technologies enhance human capabilities, support global prosperity and strengthen security.
Summit interventions and the multilateral dimension
On 18 July U Mya Tun Oo spoke at the high-level meeting “AI Partnership for a Better Future,” delivering a keynote calling for an open, inclusive, ethical and responsible governance framework that respects national sovereignty. The conference drew roughly 1,400 participants, including government officials, representatives of international organizations, and AI experts and academics.
Bilateral meetings and technology diplomacy
During the visit the delegation met with a team led by the head of the Data Bureau of Guangxi province to discuss potential cooperation projects under the China–ASEAN AI program and other collaboration opportunities with Myanmar. Delegates also visited AI exhibits at the Shanghai Expo Center to review technologies and innovations showcased at the event.
Myanmar bets on practical cooperation
Back in Yangon, the Burmese government framed its participation in the World AI Conference as a concrete step toward practical cooperation in AI development, governance and capacity building.
