China Signals Cooperation on Artificial Intelligence, but Experts Urge Caution
China has expressed a willingness to cooperate on the issue of artificial intelligence (AI) and has even proposed joining international talks to address the challenges faced by the world. The Joe Biden administration is reportedly interested in engaging China on this matter. However, China expert Gordon Chang warns that the United States should proceed with caution.
Chang argues that America does not need another feel-good agreement with China, citing the lack of enforcement mechanisms in previous agreements like the Biological Weapons Convention. Despite China’s solemn obligations in the pact, it has maintained biological weapons facilities, including the Wuhan Institute of Virology, and allegedly deliberately spread COVID-19 beyond its borders.
While China has signaled its interest in discussing AI, Chang suggests that the United States should be wary of China’s intentions. He believes that whatever China wants is unlikely to align with the interests of the United States or the international community. Chang raises concerns that entering into another unenforceable agreement could lead the United States to forgo utilizing the critical advantages that AI offers in targeting conventional munitions.
Meanwhile, experts emphasize the importance of preventing the development of AI-controlled nuclear weapons. Joe Wang, a former State Department and NSC staffer, argues that nobody wants to see nuclear weapons controlled by AI, even the most tyrannical dictators. However, Chang warns against relying on AI-controlled systems in such situations, highlighting the potential risks associated with mistaken interpretations and the inability to include gut feelings in AI algorithms.
Chang acknowledges the significance of AI as a civilization-altering technology but asserts that legislation alone cannot eliminate the threat posed by AI-powered weapons. He argues that agreements with untrustworthy regimes such as China will not effectively address the issue. China’s interest in talks about AI is largely driven by its desire to catch up with the United States, as it currently trails behind in AI development.
As the world witnesses the rise of machines, concerns about the prospect of killer robots and the potential for AI to control nuclear weapons loom large. However, the solution lies in navigating the complexities of AI development and deployment while prioritizing international cooperation, transparency, and safeguards.
In conclusion, while China’s willingness to engage in discussions about AI may be seen as a positive development, experts stress the importance of approaching the issue with caution. The United States must carefully assess China’s intentions and prioritize its national security interests when engaging in talks about AI cooperation. The potential risks associated with AI-controlled weapons highlight the need for robust regulations and international agreements to prevent unintended consequences and maintain global stability.
