What’s the US–China AI ‘hotline’ that Trump plans to pitch to Xi Jinping?

President Donald Trump announced plans to establish an "AI force" and designate an "AI Czar" in response to heightened concerns over the risks posed by rapidly advancing artificial intelligence technology. In a September 19 statement on his social media platform, Truth Social, Trump likened the initiative to the formation of the U.S. Space Force, asserting that the new unit would not "hinder or stifle the growth" of the AI industry.

Instead, he emphasized that the administration would "cherish it, help it, and watch over it, as it grows."

The announcement came amid growing pressure from lawmakers to implement safeguards to address potential risks associated with AI technology. This pressure intensified last week following the resignation of an ex-OpenAI researcher from Anthropic, who expressed deep concerns about the lack of seriousness in AI safety measures. He warned that "people building AI earnestly believe that it could kill us all by the end of the decade," accusing companies of recklessly gambling with human lives.

Similarly, a safety researcher at the company warned of a more than 10% chance of AI causing global catastrophe by 2030.

While Trump has downplayed safety warnings, dismissing them as hoaxes, he expressed strong support for the AI industry's growth. He stated that AI could have a significant impact on the U.S. economy, potentially contributing up to 25%, and reiterated his administration's commitment to maintaining the country's lead over China in AI. Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang echoed Trump's stance, dismissing warnings and calling for rapid development of AI technology.

Trump did not provide further details on the implementation of the AI force or the selection of the AI Czar. However, reports suggest that former Trump administration official David Sacks, who served as the AI and cryptocurrency czar, could be a potential candidate for the role. The AI regulation debate is anticipated to be a key topic at upcoming high-level meetings, including a UN event on AI organized by the Trump administration, and a state dinner at the White House during Chinese President Xi Jinping's visit to Washington.