US and China explore new rules for AI safety

TDT | Manama

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The United States and China have agreed to establish a communication channel for AI-related incidents, marking a rare area of cooperation between the two countries as they compete to lead the global AI race.

The mechanism is intended to allow both sides to communicate about serious AI incidents and related risks, particularly those that could affect national security. The agreement followed a three-day summit between US President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping in Washington.

Earlier discussions had focused on creating an AI incident notification system, with US officials calling for greater transparency between the two leading AI powers. Officials have raised concerns about increasingly autonomous AI systems, cyberattacks and potential threats to critical infrastructure.

The two countries are also expected to hold a dedicated AI dialogue in November. The new channel does not create common AI regulations, but it provides a framework for discussing incidents and risks.

The bigger question: Can cooperation on AI safety continue even as Washington and Beijing compete over technology, chips and AI leadership?