AI Steals the Spotlight at China’s 2025 'Two Sessions'!

Introduction to China's 2025 Two Sessions

The "Two Sessions" of 2025 in China have marked a significant moment in the country's political and technological landscape, highlighting the increasing importance of artificial intelligence in shaping national strategies. As the annual meetings of China's top legislative body, the National People's Congress (NPC), and its top political advisory body, the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC), the "Two Sessions" serve as a platform for discussing and enacting major policies. This year, AI has been at the forefront of discussions, further indicating China's commitment to technological innovation in the face of global competition, especially with the United States.

Foreign Minister Wang Yi's remarks during the sessions underscored China's intent to overcome technological barriers imposed by US sanctions and to lead AI development globally. This determination is a response to what Chinese officials describe as "unjustified external suppression," which refers to US-imposed sanctions and blockades targeting China's high-tech sectors. Such political dynamics emphasize the ongoing tech rivalry between China and the US, with AI, semiconductors, and 5G technologies being central areas of contention .

Despite the emphasis on artificial intelligence, specific advancements in the technology were not detailed during the meetings. However, the discussions painted a picture of China's broader ambitions in AI development and its desire to not only achieve self-sufficiency but also to set global AI standards. China's stated willingness to share its technological innovations with the world reflects an openness to collaboration, aimed at enhancing global partnerships amid the pressures of international competition and sanctions.

The 2025 "Two Sessions" also brought into focus China's strategic initiatives to counteract the constraints posed by foreign technology dependence. Notably, the announcement of a $138 billion state-backed fund targeting AI and other critical technology sectors signifies a robust move towards fostering homegrown innovation. This large-scale investment is part of a broader effort to insulate China's economy and technological infrastructure from external pressures and to position itself as a leader in the global tech arena .

The Rise of Artificial Intelligence in Chinese Politics

Over the past decade, artificial intelligence has become an increasingly prominent fixture in Chinese political discourse, with its presence notably expanding at major national gatherings like the "Two Sessions." At these seminal events, AI has moved from the periphery to the forefront of discussions, marking China's ambition to position itself as a leader in technological innovation on the world stage. The 2025 meetings were emblematic of this shift, with AI recognized not merely as a tool for economic development but as a strategic element of national policy aimed at countering external pressures, particularly from the United States. During these sessions, Chinese officials underscored the importance of AI in achieving technological self-reliance, which aligns with the broader "Made in China 2025" initiative aiming to reduce dependence on foreign technology. Meanwhile, Foreign Minister Wang Yi's announcements during the meetings highlighted China's strategic use of AI to navigate international tech competition, signaling a firm commitment to overcome US-imposed high-tech sanctions [SCMP](https://www.scmp.com/news/china/politics/article/3301606/years-two-sessions-beijing-ai-seems-be-everyones-lips).

Further discussions at the "Two Sessions" reiterated China's robust agenda to integrate AI into various sectors, from manufacturing to national defense, in a bid to drive efficiency and innovation. This strategic emphasis on AI reflects a response to the challenging international climate, where technological leadership often translates to geopolitical power. The government's commitment to AI also plays a crucial role in forging new international partnerships, especially as China positions itself as a willing sharer of technological advancements with nations in the Global South. This aspect of AI policy not only enhances China's diplomatic leverage but also serves to counterbalance the technological pull of Western nations. By proposing collaborations and partnerships, China is paving a way to create a more multipolar technological world, where its innovations contribute not just to domestic growth but to global development as well [SCMP](https://www.scmp.com/news/china/politics/article/3301606/years-two-sessions-beijing-ai-seems-be-everyones-lips).

US-China Tech Rivalry and AI Discussions

The ongoing technology rivalry between the United States and China has grown increasingly entrenched, particularly in the realm of artificial intelligence. The tech competition signifies broader geopolitical tensions, marking AI as a pivotal element in both nations' strategic agendas. The "Two Sessions" meeting in 2025 underscored this dynamic, with China emphasizing its resolve to advance AI technologies despite facing US-imposed sanctions. This commitment is not just about technological advancement but also about asserting China’s position in global tech leadership [SCMP](https://www.scmp.com/news/china/politics/article/3301606/years-two-sessions-beijing-ai-seems-be-everyones-lips).

During the "Two Sessions," discussions highlighted China's readiness to navigate through and beyond US technological barriers by advancing AI initiatives that could redefine global alignments. The sentiments echoed by Chinese political leaders, such as Foreign Minister Wang Yi, suggest a dual strategy of technological self-sufficiency and international cooperation. Wang articulated a vision where China's AI developments could become a cornerstone for new global collaborations, particularly with countries in the Global South, thereby countering US influence locally and internationally [SCMP](https://www.scmp.com/news/china/politics/article/3301606/years-two-sessions-beijing-ai-seems-be-everyones-lips).

The fierce competition is further complicated by China's deployment of large-scale venture capital aimed at boosting its tech sector, including AI. This massive investment reflects not only a response to US sanctions but also a clear intent to carve out a substantial share of the AI market. Models such as DeepSeek’s R1 have demonstrated significant potential, positioning China as a formidable contender capable of threatening the technological upper hand previously held by US companies [Foreign Policy](https://foreignpolicy.com/2025/03/03/artificial-intelligence-ai-us-china-competition-deepseek-containment/).

These developments in AI are not only about tech supremacy; they suggest profound implications for international relations and economic strategies. China's willingness to share its technological advancements is framed as a strategic geopolitical move. By doing so, China aims to form new alliances, particularly within developing regions, fostering a tech partnership atmosphere that may gradually erode the traditional technological alliances led by the US. Such diplomatic outreach serves as China's gambit to mitigate the impacts of Western-imposed sanctions [New America](https://www.newamerica.org/cybersecurity-initiative/reports/china-ai-governance-2025).

China's Approach to Sharing Technological Innovations

China's approach to sharing technological innovations is emblematic of its strategic positioning in the global tech landscape. At the heart of this strategy is a desire to balance national self-reliance with international collaboration. During the 2025 'Two Sessions', which are critical political meetings where major policies are deliberated, China's leadership emphasized artificial intelligence (AI) as a key area of development. Foreign Minister Wang Yi's statements underscored Beijing's willingness to share its technological breakthroughs internationally, an agenda that seeks to affirm China not only as a self-sufficient innovator but also as a cooperative global player. For more details on China's strategic investments in technology, you can read this [CNN article](https://www.cnn.com/2025/03/06/tech/china-state-venture-capital-guidance-fund-intl-hnk/index.html).

China's commitment to sharing its technological advancements is a nuanced approach aimed at expanding its influence while countering US-led technological containment. With significant investments such as the $138 billion tech fund focusing on AI and other strategic sectors, China is positioning itself as a leader in innovation. This move addresses the technological rivalry with the United States, characterized by sanctions and restrictions. China's overtures to share its innovations also strengthen its diplomatic relationships, particularly with countries in the Global South, potentially creating new alliances that counter Western influence. Insights into this can be gleaned from this [Foreign Policy report](https://foreignpolicy.com/2025/03/03/artificial-intelligence-ai-us-china-competition-deepseek-containment/).

While China signals a robust willingness to share its AI advancements globally, the mechanisms for sharing these technologies remain undefined. This lack of clarity could either be a strategic choice or a reflection of ongoing internal policy formulations. Nonetheless, Beijing's narrative of openness is designed to project a collaborative stance, despite the geopolitical tensions, particularly with the US over AI development. The strategic release of technologies that align with China's interests might foster an image of technological benevolence and leadership, influencing global standards and practices in AI. For an understanding of the geopolitical stakes involved, the [East-West Center's publication](https://www.eastwestcenter.org/publications/china-technology-strategy-2025) provides comprehensive insights.

Impact of AI at the National People's Congress and CPPCC

The 2025 "Two Sessions" in Beijing have underscored artificial intelligence (AI) as a pivotal theme, reflecting China's strategic push to cement its stature as a leading tech innovator on the global stage. These sessions, encompassing the National People's Congress (NPC) and the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC), signify a significant platform where AI's potential and challenges are vigorously debated. The intense focus on AI during these meetings is indicative of its role as a cornerstone for China's broader economic and technological ambitions. China's determination to spearhead AI advancements is further amplified by Foreign Minister Wang Yi's remarks on sidestepping US-imposed tech barriers, underlining a resilient stance on technological autonomy [South China Morning Post](https://www.scmp.com/news/china/politics/article/3301606/years-two-sessions-beijing-ai-seems-be-everyones-lips).

In these 2025 discussions, AI has become synonymous with China's vision of future-proofing its economy against geopolitical tensions, particularly the tech rivalry with the United States. The NPC and CPPCC became forums to showcase progress in AI fields amidst nationalistic rhetoric about overcoming "unjustified external suppression" from abroad. This environment reflects a dual strategic posture: reinforcing the domestic AI capabilities while playing a leadership role in global tech narratives. As [CNN reports](https://www.cnn.com/2025/03/06/tech/china-state-venture-capital-guidance-fund-intl-hnk/index.html), China's initiative to establish a $138 billion tech fund is a testament to its commitment to expand indigenous AI research, counteract sanctions, and potentially redefine global tech alliances.

With AI discussions reverberating across the "Two Sessions," China has launched a multidimensional strategy that includes proposing supportive legislation for private enterprises, aimed at fostering an innovative ecosystem that can maneuver through the complexities of international trade pressures. By articulating a forward-thinking AI agenda, Chinese officials seem intent on not just closing the technological gap with Western adversaries but also on advocating for an inclusive form of technological sharing. While the meetings have extensively covered the evolvement of AI, elaborate details from official reports are anticipated to lay a clearer roadmap of China's path forward in this strategic domain [South China Morning Post](https://www.scmp.com/news/china/politics/article/3301606/years-two-sessions-beijing-ai-seems-be-everyones-lips).

China's Technological Ambitions Amid Global Competition

China's technological ambitions have increasingly become a focal point amid fierce global competition, particularly between Beijing and Washington. President Xi Jinping's administration has placed a strong emphasis on achieving technological self-reliance and advancing the nation's innovation capabilities. This ambition is juxtaposed with a highly competitive race, especially with the United States, one of the world leaders in technology. At the core of this competition lies the development and integration of artificial intelligence, a domain China is aggressively pursuing while aiming to diminish dependency on foreign technologies.

The "Two Sessions" political meetings serve as a crucial platform where China's leaders outline their strategic priorities, including their technological aspirations. During the 2025 sessions, artificial intelligence dominated the discussions, underscoring its significance in the country's broader geopolitical and economic strategies. The Chinese government has shown a commitment to overcoming the barriers imposed by U.S. sanctions, which have sought to isolate Beijing from cutting-edge technological resources. In this context, China's leadership is determined to break through these external constraints, prioritizing indigenous innovation as a central pillar of national policy [source](https://www.scmp.com/news/china/politics/article/3301606/years-two-sessions-beijing-ai-seems-be-everyones-lips).

To counteract the effects of international tech blockades, China has launched an ambitious $138 billion tech fund, specifically targeting AI and other high-tech sectors. This move is not just about bolstering domestic capabilities but also about asserting China's position as a global tech leader. This strategic investment aims to ensure that China remains at the forefront of technological advancements, despite external pressures, and to secure long-term national security and economic objectives [source](https://www.cnn.com/2025/03/06/tech/china-state-venture-capital-guidance-fund-intl-hnk/index.html).

Amidst this challenging international landscape, China's technological ambitions also include a component of global cooperation. Foreign Minister Wang Yi's remarks during the Two Sessions emphasized the willingness to share the results of Chinese technological innovations with other countries. This gesture extends beyond mere economic partnerships; it's a strategic move to strengthen bilateral ties and counterbalance U.S. influence through soft power. However, the details of how these collaborations will be structured remain to be clarified [source](https://www.scmp.com/news/china/politics/article/3301606/years-two-sessions-beijing-ai-seems-be-everyones-lips).

The focus on AI also highlights the strategic decoupling in tech supply chains, which is becoming increasingly evident as China pursues the "Made in China 2025" initiative. This long-term strategy is geared towards reducing reliance on foreign technology and bolstering domestic industries in key sectors such as robotics, automation, and AI. While the initiative seeks to fortify China's manufacturing capabilities, it has simultaneously intensified trade tensions with the United States, showcasing the complex interplay between economic ambitions and geopolitical realities [source](https://www.cfr.org/backgrounder/made-china-2025-threat-global-trade).

The Strategic Response to US Tech Sanctions

China has strategically positioned itself to respond to US technology sanctions by leveraging its political platform, the "Two Sessions," to showcase its advances in artificial intelligence. Recognizing the competitive edge that AI development can provide, China has committed to accelerating innovation in this arena. According to , Foreign Minister Wang Yi emphasized China’s resolve to overcome US-imposed restrictions while expressing a willingness to share technological advancements internationally, potentially as a means to foster diplomatic alliances and negotiate economic partnerships globally.

The response to US tech sanctions is not just reactive but a part of China’s broader strategic agenda, as highlighted during the 2025 "Two Sessions." This platform provided an opportunity for Chinese leadership to articulate its goals of achieving technological self-sufficiency through increased investment in AI and related fields. One significant step is the establishment of a $138 billion tech fund focused on AI and quantum technologies, which signifies China's commitment to becoming a global leader in high-tech industries, aligning with the "Made in China 2025" initiative. More details on these developments can be found at .

China’s strategic response also aims to utilize AI as a means of soft power, enhancing its global influence especially among developing nations. The prospect of sharing AI innovations with international partners suggests a dual approach where China seeks to mitigate the impact of US sanctions while projecting an image of technological cooperation and openness. However, skepticism remains about the extent of this openness as China continues to build its technological capabilities, potentially creating a new paradigm in the global tech landscape. For an analysis of China’s strategic positioning in this context, reference can be made to .

AI's Role in China’s Economic and Geopolitical Strategies

AI has been positioned as a critical component of China's strategy to strengthen its economic and geopolitical standing. During the 2025 "Two Sessions," AI discussions took center stage, with government officials focusing on technological self-reliance and enhanced capabilities amid escalating tensions with the United States. As Foreign Minister Wang Yi emphasized, China is determined to overcome "unjustified external suppression" by investing heavily in AI, part of a broader commitment to technological advancement. The country's resolve to lead in AI is not only about economic benefits but also about asserting its global influence by offering its innovations to other nations, a move intended to counterbalance US dominance [source].

China's approach involves nurturing its AI sector through significant state investments, such as the nearly 1 trillion yuan tech fund aimed at fostering development in AI along with other strategic sectors. This substantial funding initiative not only reflects China's commitment to mitigating the impact of foreign sanctions but also indicates a strategic pivot towards building a robust domestic foundation for AI advancements. The fund is a response to the challenges posed by US technological restrictions and is geared towards securing China's position as a leader in the global tech landscape [source].

As China's AI capabilities grow, its geopolitical strategy also adjusts, leveraging technological achievements to strengthen diplomatic ties, particularly with countries in the Global South. By promoting a narrative of collaboration and open innovation, China aims to build alliances that serve as a counterweight to Western influence. This dual strategy of emphasizing self-reliance while promoting international cooperation showcases China's nuanced approach to AI as a tool of both domestic empowerment and global diplomacy [source].

China's AI ambitions are underscored by significant breakthroughs from domestic firms like DeepSeek, whose R1 language model challenges existing US technologies both in capability and cost-effectiveness. Such achievements have not only sparked economic competition but have also highlighted China's potential to reshape global technology standards. The nation's strategy to offer AI innovations globally allows it to wield technological influence, as it positions its AI systems as viable alternatives to Western counterparts [source].

The geopolitical implications of AI's prominence at the "Two Sessions" are profound, signaling an intensification of tech competition with the United States. As China continues to navigate trade tensions and potential decoupling from Western supply chains through initiatives like "Made in China 2025," it remains committed to transforming its industrial base and diminishing reliance on foreign technologies. This path reflects a strategic decoupling that may redefine global trade patterns and further assert China’s technological sovereignty [source].

Despite the competitive landscape, China demonstrates a complex strategy of engagement and isolation. While advancing technological self-reliance, Beijing also advocates for shared innovation results, which can serve as a diplomatic lever in forging partnerships and easing geopolitical tensions. This selective engagement allows China to benefit from global technological exchanges while safeguarding its core competencies, ensuring its influence in the global landscape grows alongside its advancements in AI [source].

Public Reaction to China's AI Focus

The public reaction to China's increasing focus on artificial intelligence (AI) during the 2025 "Two Sessions" has been mixed, reflecting both national pride and global concern. Domestically, many see this strategic move as a bold assertion of China’s technological prowess amidst growing competition with the United States. It has fostered a sense of national pride among many citizens, who view this focus as a step toward self-reliance and global leadership in technology. However, some citizens express skepticism about the government's promises, questioning the transparency and inclusiveness of such technological advancements, especially concerning privacy and job security. Internationally, reactions vary widely. Critics in the West often view China's rapid AI advancements as a threat to global technological balance, while some developing nations welcome China’s willingness to share its AI innovations, as indicated in Foreign Minister Wang Yi's statements, seeing it as an opportunity to benefit from advanced technology ([source](https://merics.org/en/short-analysis/chinas-two-sessions-2025-tech-self-reliance-takes-center-stage)).

Media coverage of China's AI ambitions during the "Two Sessions" has further fueled public debate. Local media have extensively reported on China’s plans to boost AI development, framing the initiative as part of the country's broader strategy to overcome US-imposed technological challenges. This angle has resonated with domestic audiences who feel emboldened by the government's proactive stance. Conversely, international media outlets often interpret these developments with caution, emphasizing concerns about the potential impacts on global tech competition and data privacy standards. This divergence in media narratives mirrors the global uncertainty surrounding China’s AI strategies, especially concerning its implications for international tech collaborations ([source](https://foreignpolicy.com/2025/03/03/artificial-intelligence-ai-us-china-competition-deepseek-containment/)).

In online forums and social media, public sentiment regarding China's AI focus is dynamic and varied. Some citizens use these platforms to express optimism about future job creation and economic growth spurred by AI innovations. On the other hand, concerns about the ethical implications of AI, such as surveillance and data privacy, are prevalent. Discussions often reflect a generational divide, with younger users generally expressing more enthusiasm for technological advancements while older generations voice caution. Furthermore, Chinese diaspora communities abroad engage in discussions about how China's AI focus might change perceptions in their host countries, debating the balance between national pride and international challenges ([source](https://www.cnbc.com/2025/03/06/china-doubles-down-on-ai-and-tech-as-trump-ratchets-up-trade-pressure.html)).

Future Economic, Geopolitical, and Social Implications

The future economic implications of China's 2025 'Two Sessions' focus on AI are profound, particularly in terms of technological self-sufficiency. China's commitment to investing $138 billion in a tech fund reflects a strategic pivot towards reducing reliance on foreign technology, particularly from the U.S., amidst increasing sanctions. This fund is expected to foster domestic innovation, enabling China to compete more vigorously in the global AI landscape. Moreover, breakthroughs such as DeepSeek's large language model illustrate China's capability to develop competitive technologies at significantly reduced costs, which may disrupt existing global AI market dynamics. Additionally, China's potential willingness to share innovations could forge new economic partnerships, especially with developing nations, enhancing China's global influence and opening pathways for collaborative economic growth. The proposed private sector support law further underscores the anticipated transformation within China's business ecosystem, catalyzing the emergence of new industry leaders poised to navigate and thrive in an AI-driven market environment.

Geopolitically, China's emphasis on AI during the 'Two Sessions' suggests a concerted effort to challenge U.S. technological dominance, indicating an accelerated global race to AI sovereignty. The 'Made in China 2025' initiative points toward an ongoing decoupling from Western supply chains, which could significantly alter international trade dynamics and power structures. As China positions AI at the forefront of its geopolitical strategy, its intention to share technological advancements also represents a potential means of leverage in diplomatic arenas. Such a move could foster alliances with countries eager for technological advancements, thereby creating a counterbalance to Western technological influence. Furthermore, China's development of distinct AI governance frameworks may result in divergent global standards for AI, potentially leading to regulatory competition across the globe.

Socially, the ramifications of China's AI initiatives are multifaceted, particularly concerning workforce evolution and digital governance. The rapid advancement of AI is poised to redefine China's labor market, catalyzing the demand for new skill sets while simultaneously threatening traditional employment sectors. In the realm of governance, enhanced AI capabilities could transform interactions between the government and citizens, offering the potential for increased administrative efficiency. However, this raises significant questions surrounding privacy, surveillance, and the ethical implications of AI-driven governance models. Furthermore, as AI continues to shape the media and educational landscapes, it will significantly influence public discourse and information dissemination within China. The rhetoric framing AI development as a response to external threats may bolster a sense of technological nationalism, fostering a unified national identity centered around technological advancement as a pillar of both domestic and global strategy.