US and China discuss AI safety plan ahead of Trump-Xi summit
US and Chinese officials have discussed establishing a notification mechanism for AI incidents that could threaten national security. The talks, led by Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and Vice Premier He Lifeng, aim to increase transparency between the world's two leading AI powers.
Why it matters
As AI development accelerates, international cooperation on safety protocols is essential to prevent geopolitical instability and mitigate catastrophic risks.
Image source, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent/X Image caption, US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent met China's Vice Premier He Lifeng
Top US and Chinese officials have discussed creating a new "notification mechanism" for AI incidents that could affect national security, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent told reporters on Sunday.
Bessent made the comments after what he called "successful" talks with Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng in New York.
The meeting came as US President Donald Trump and his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping are due to hold a summit in Washington later this week.
AI has come under intense scrutiny in recent days after researchers warned of the potential risks posed by the technology and some of the industry's most high profile figures called for developers to take a more cautious approach.
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