US-China AI safety talks face hurdle over how to define ‘serious’ incidents: analysts

AI Summary

Analysts say differing US and Chinese definitions of a serious AI safety incident could hinder efforts to create a bilateral communication mechanism. US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has called for cooperation on AI risks while acknowledging the countries’ substantial differences.

China and the United States have a shared interest in preventing artificial intelligence (AI) from being misused, but differing views over what constitutes a serious safety incident could complicate efforts to build a bilateral communication mechanism, according to analysts. US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said on Tuesday that Washington and Beijing should cooperate on AI risks while harbouring no illusions about their differences. He noted the two governments had established a new dialogue...