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American authorities expressed worries regarding China’s “abuse of AI,” while Chinese delegates criticized the United States for imposing “limitations and pressure” on artificial intelligence. These statements were made separately by the respective governments on Wednesday, following a Tuesday meeting in Geneva focused on the technology.
Reports on private discussions involving senior representatives, which addressed the dangers of AI and strategies for its regulation, suggested underlying friction between China and the United States regarding this swiftly evolving technology, adding another point of contention in their relationship.
The initial discussions between the U.S. and China regarding AI originated from a meeting in November in San Francisco between Presidents Joe Biden and Xi Jinping. These discussions highlighted both the anxieties and expectations surrounding this promising yet potentially dangerous new technology.
Watson emphasized that the United States highlighted the need to make sure AI systems are reliable, protected, and dependable to fully harness their advantages. She mentioned the importance of maintaining global agreement on these principles. Regarding China, she noted that the U.S. expressed worries about the potential for AI to be used improperly, including by the People’s Republic of China.
In the meantime, Beijing conveyed a strong position regarding the U.S. limitations and pressure on China’s artificial intelligence sector, according to a statement from the Department of North American and Oceanian Affairs of the Chinese Foreign Ministry on social media.
In the past, Beijing has criticized the export restrictions imposed by the U.S. Commerce Department, which limit the availability of sophisticated computer chips that can be utilized for artificial intelligence. Additionally, in August, President Biden issued an executive order to curb American investments in China’s AI sector.
China supports the idea of the United Nations spearheading the global regulation of artificial intelligence, a strategy that might marginalize the United States.
According to the Chinese statement, both parties acknowledged that AI offers potential benefits but also carries certain dangers.
China has established a highly invasive digital monitoring network, incorporating artificial intelligence, by installing cameras on urban streets and monitoring individuals via messaging applications and smartphones.