China and US seek cooperation on AI regulation and standards

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi has called for increased cooperation between China and the United States regarding the development and regulation of artificial intelligence. Speaking at the 2026 Global Governance Forum in Xiong’an, Hebei province, Wang met with Asia Society Trustee John L. Thornton and New York Times columnist Thomas L. Friedman to discuss the necessity of establishing global rules and standards.

Wang emphasized that both nations possess the capacity to ensure long-term human control over AI systems. He advocated for an inclusive approach to technology that promotes global prosperity and security while addressing existing risks.

During the discussions, Thornton and Friedman highlighted the dangers of unregulated AI proliferation. They noted that the potential misuse of the technology represents a significant risk to the strategic stability of relations between Washington and Beijing, prompting calls for closer bilateral collaboration in the field.