US, China Plan AI Dialogue Ahead of Trump-Xi Summit
The United States and China have agreed to establish a new dialogue on artificial intelligence as officials from the world’s two largest economies prepare for a summit between President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping in Washington this week.
US-China AI Dialogue to Address Security Risks
US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent held talks with Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng in New York, describing the discussions on artificial intelligence, trade and investment as productive.
Washington proposed creating an AI notification mechanism through which the two countries could communicate about major incidents involving artificial intelligence that rise to the level of national security concerns.
Bessent said greater transparency was important as the US and China are the world’s two leading AI powers. The proposed mechanism would focus on identifying shared objectives and potential threats rather than resolving the broader technological rivalry between the countries.
AI Chip Export Controls Remain Separate
US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer said restrictions on exports of advanced AI chips and semiconductor manufacturing equipment to China were not part of the proposed AI dialogue.
Washington has maintained extensive technology export controls, while Beijing has accelerated development of its domestic semiconductor and artificial intelligence industries.
Trade Talks Prepare Ground for Trump-Xi Meeting
The two sides also discussed creating a framework to reduce tariffs on selected non-sensitive goods. Potential areas include American energy, agricultural products and medical equipment alongside lower-tech Chinese consumer goods.
However, several major trade disputes remain unresolved, including critical minerals and Chinese commitments involving additional purchases of US products.
Trump is scheduled to host Xi at the White House later this week, with artificial intelligence, trade and wider US-China economic relations expected to feature prominently in their talks.
