Scoop: U.S. open to discuss AI "shared risks" with China, Bessent says
The U.S. is open to discussing shared risks with China in upcoming AI talks this weekend, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent told Axios. Why it matters: The Trump administration has flatly rejected calls from industry to pace or slow down the development of AI, citing a fierce race against China. Bessent's scheduled meeting with Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng could provide an opening for talks on…
U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent stated to Axios that the United States is open to discussing shared risks with China during upcoming AI talks this weekend. This could provide an opportunity for U.S.-China cooperation on AI safety. Bessent will meet with Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng, as the Treasury Secretary and U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer are the primary points of contact on China-related matters, according to a senior administration official.
The agenda for the multi-hour meetings in New York City, centered on AI, trade, rare earths, and other economic issues, remains flexible to allow for comprehensive discussions. Bessent has been instrumental in the Trump administration's AI agenda, including a G7 press conference where top AI CEOs and administration officials discussed U.S.-led coordination on global AI standards.
Bessent's role in high-profile AI discussions at the G20 summit and his trust by the private sector and critical infrastructure operators further highlights his potential in facilitating U.S.-China AI talks. The upcoming summit between Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping on September 24 provides a backdrop for these talks, as AI CEOs have been advocating for U.S.-China coordination on safety standards.
Written by urgent.news from Axios's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
