**US and China to Establish 'AI Dialogue' Amid Growing Concerns**
*By Emma De Ruiter, Published on 21/09/2026 - 5:54 GMT+2*
In a significant development in international relations, economic officials from the United States and China convened on Sunday to discuss the establishment of a dedicated communication channel focused on artificial intelligence (AI) concerns. This initiative is part of the preparations for an upcoming summit between the countries' top leaders, US President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping, scheduled for later this week.
During the discussions, US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent emphasized the importance of creating a "US-China AI dialogue" to facilitate transparency and communication regarding AI-related issues. He stated, “We want a shared vision of common goals and common threats,” highlighting the necessity for both nations to address the potential risks associated with AI technologies.
Bessent elaborated on the proposal for a notification mechanism that would allow both countries to alert each other about potential incidents involving AI that could escalate to a national security concern. This proactive approach aims to mitigate risks and enhance cooperation between the two leading AI powers globally.
The meetings were characterized as a prelude to a more extensive dialogue set to take place at the White House, where Trump and Xi are expected to operationalize a newly discussed “Board of Trade.” This initiative stems from discussions held during a previous meeting in Beijing in May, reflecting a commitment to addressing key economic and trade issues of mutual interest.
Chinese state media reported that the discussions were "candid, in-depth, and constructive," with both sides engaging in talks on various economic topics, including the implementation of previous agreements and the promotion of bilateral trade and investment. The Chinese news agency Xinhua also confirmed that officials from both nations addressed AI-related issues, although specific details of these discussions were not disclosed.
As the world grapples with the rapid advancement of AI technologies, both the US and China are increasingly aware of the potential implications these developments could have on global security and stability. The rising capabilities of AI systems have sparked fears regarding their potential to cause significant harm, prompting a rare opportunity for collaboration between the two nations despite their ongoing competition for technological supremacy.
In recent statements, President Trump has resisted calls for a slowdown in AI development, arguing that such a move would allow China to catch up with American companies. This stance reflects the broader context of the US-China relationship, which has been marked by both rivalry and the necessity for dialogue on pressing global issues.
The establishment of the "US-China AI dialogue" represents a critical step towards fostering communication and understanding between the two countries as they navigate the complexities of AI technology and its implications for national security. As the summit approaches, the outcomes of these discussions will be closely monitored by stakeholders worldwide, given the profound impact that US-China relations have on global economic and technological landscapes.