AI rivalry between the US and China need not block joint governance

The author contends that compelling countries to align exclusively with either US or Chinese AI strategies would be counterproductive for worldwide AI governance. Risks such as cyber-attacks, misinformation, system failures and dangerous misuse are not confined by national borders, making coordinated standards essential. At the inaugural UN Global Dialogue on AI Governance, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres warned that a mosaic of incompatible rules would increase costs and leave everyone unprotected.

The US-centric Pax Silica initiative focuses on critical technology security and trusted partner networks, while China’s Waico program promotes development and expands Beijing’s sway in global AI policy. Despite their competitive origins, the piece argues that both programs can coexist and that geopolitical rivalry should not be used to explain their full scope.