In a final meeting, the two leaders stress communication, caution over AI in warfare, and cooperation amidst political transitions.
- AI and Nuclear Weapons: Biden and Xi agree to limit AI’s role in nuclear weapon systems to avoid catastrophic risks.
- Maintaining Dialogue: Both leaders highlight open communication as crucial for managing U.S.-China relations.
- Political Transition: Xi signals readiness to engage with the incoming Trump administration but warns of policy missteps.
During their meeting at the APEC summit in Peru, President Joe Biden and Chinese President Xi Jinping underscored a shared commitment to keeping artificial intelligence out of nuclear decision-making. Both leaders acknowledged the catastrophic risks of handing such responsibilities to autonomous systems and pledged to prioritize human oversight in this domain. The agreement represents a rare instance of alignment between the two rival powers, reflecting mutual recognition of the broader stakes involved.
The Need for Ongoing Dialogue
Biden emphasized the importance of sustained communication to prevent misunderstandings and manage the U.S.-China rivalry responsibly. “Competition, not conflict,” he reiterated, signaling a commitment to keeping tensions in check. Xi, while expressing similar sentiments, hinted at shifting focus to the incoming Trump administration, urging Washington to “make the right choice” on China policy. This transition adds a layer of complexity, but both leaders appear to recognize dialogue as a stabilizing factor.
Broader Diplomatic Concerns
Beyond AI and nuclear issues, Biden pressed Xi on releasing two U.S. citizens detained in China and addressing North Korea’s support of Russia’s actions in Ukraine. These conversations highlight ongoing points of contention even as the two nations collaborate on critical global challenges. Xi’s readiness to work with Trump’s administration suggests that China seeks continuity in addressing such pressing issues.
This meeting underscores the delicate balancing act in U.S.-China relations—cooperation on existential threats paired with persistent diplomatic disputes.