US-China AI safety talks hinge on uneasy cooperation amid rivalry

A high-level meeting in Washington between Donald Trump and Xi Jinping will focus on the growing dangers of artificial intelligence, a concern echoed by leaders in both countries. American technology firms stress that preventing worst-case scenarios will need some level of cooperation with China, even as the United States pushes to maintain its lead and fears that regulation could benefit its rival. China, meanwhile, promotes widespread adoption of its more affordable open-source models while accusing the U.S. of trying to create an AI monopoly.

Both sides have exchanged accusations of malicious behavior and suppression, but experts suggest that acknowledging shared risks could open a modest diplomatic corridor. Former ambassador Cui Tiankai and senior fellows such as Samm Sacks argue that dialogue is essential despite competitive pressures. The outcome is likely to be limited, yet it may lay groundwork for broader international governance efforts.