Biden launches AI ‘risk and safety’ talks with China. Is nuclear C2 a likely focus?
US President Joe Biden has announced a key agreement with Chinese President Xi Jinping during their recent meeting, focusing on artificial intelligence (AI) and its associated risk and safety issues. While details remain limited, experts suggest that an AI agreement could involve a commitment not to use AI in nuclear systems, particularly AI command-and-control systems for nuclear weapons. The aim is to establish global norms on the military use of AI, and there are indications that China is receptive to discussions on limiting the role of AI in nuclear weapons. While hopes for a joint statement on banning AI use in autonomous weaponry were high, it remains uncertain whether the US and China will reach a formal agreement on AI. The broader international context involves the US pushing for voluntary norms on military AI use, while some activists seek a binding ban on "killer robots." The recent resolution passed by the UN General Assembly, with China abstaining, highlights the challenges in reaching a consensus on regulating military AI.