US could put allies on the spot in AI race with China

The United States is warning allies they may be excluded from a US-led artificial intelligence (AI) coalition if they also join China's competing framework, potentially putting them on the spot. A US official and internal draft document reviewed by Reuters revealed the plan. Last year, Washington initiated the Pax Silica initiative to secure AI supply chains, which has attracted about two dozen countries, including Kazakhstan, a vital source of critical minerals that has also joined China's coalition.

Other US allies joining include Japan, Australia, and South Korea. The draft letter, addressed to 35 signatories of a US AI Opportunity Statement, urges countries to choose sides deliberately, stating that membership in both initiatives conflicts with their own interests. The US aims to deprive China of resources in their AI race, which could lead to military or economic dominance.

China launched its rival World Artificial Intelligence Cooperation Organization in July, promoting open-weight technology as a challenge to US influence. Kazakhstan's participation in both initiatives has raised concerns in Washington. The US intends to send the letter, though the timing and potential amendments are unclear. China opposes the US's politicalization of trade and technology. The Kazakh embassy in Washington did not comment on the matter.