President Joe Biden and Chinese President Xi Jinping convened in San Francisco on Nov. 15 to discuss — among other things — artificial intelligence. Contrary to a South China Morning Post report suggesting a potential pledge to ban AI in nuclear weapon control and deployment, the leaders opted to continue dialogue on the risks of advanced AI systems and enhancing safety.
“The United States will continue to compete vigorously with the PRC, but will manage that competition responsibly so it doesn’t veer into conflict or accidental conflict,” Biden said.
Last month, the Biden administration heightened restrictions on U.S. companies selling sophisticated semiconductor chips to China, citing national security concerns. The tightened regulations affect not only military applications, but also commercial usage, impacting Chinese companies that are engaged in artificial intelligence projects.
Although diplomatic channels have remained open, military communications were halted following former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi’s visit to Taiwan in August.
“We’re resuming military-to-military contact, direct contacts,” Biden said in a press conference. “As a lot of you know who follow this, that’s been cut off and it’s been very worrisome. That’s how accidents happen, misunderstandings. So we’re back to direct, open, clear, direct communications.”
“China never bets against the U.S., never interferes in its internal affairs,” Xi said. “China has no intention to challenge or to replace the U.S. Instead, we are glad to see a confident, open, and prosperous U.S. Likewise, the U.S. should not bet against China. The U.S. should not interfere in China’s internal affairs.”
During the meeting, leaders reached an agreement to address the production and trafficking of drugs like fentanyl. Additionally, Xi indicated he intends to send new pandas to the United States following the return of three pandas to China earlier this month.