On July 16, representatives from 29 countries sign a treaty to establish the World Artificial Intelligence Cooperation Organization (WAICO), Reuters reports. The agreement formalizes the creation of an intergovernmental body led by China. Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi signs on behalf of Beijing, and UN Secretary-General António Guterres attends the ceremony. China presents WAICO as a platform to promote international cooperation and support global governance for artificial intelligence. Founding member states mentioned across coverage include Russia, Kazakhstan, Pakistan, and others among the 29 signatories. The participating governments frame the initiative as an effort to coordinate approaches to AI at the international level. The reports also describe the move as part of Beijing’s broader efforts to institutionalize its role in shaping international discussions and rules for emerging digital technologies. While outlets characterize the organization’s purpose through China’s stated goals, the coverage is consistent that the treaty is signed by 29 countries and that the launch ceremony involves top Chinese and UN officials. The organization’s next steps and operating details are not covered in the provided excerpts.