During recent high-level discussions in Beijing, U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent announced that the United States and China are set to establish a crucial protocol for artificial intelligence safety. Bessent emphasized that the U.S. holds a significant lead in AI development, a position he believes facilitates a constructive and “wholesome” dialogue with Beijing on the burgeoning technology.

The proposed protocol aims to define best practices for AI advancement and prevent advanced models from falling into the hands of non-state actors. This initiative comes amidst growing concerns within the technology sector, particularly following the emergence of models like Anthropic’s Mythos AI, which is reportedly designed with potent cyberattack capabilities. The U.S. also anticipates substantial leaps in AI, with major releases expected from Google’s Gemini and OpenAI, signaling a “step-function jump” in large language model capabilities.

Washington has simultaneously pursued strategies to curb China’s AI progress, notably through restrictions on the sale of advanced semiconductors, primarily those produced by Nvidia. While reports have circulated regarding the clearance of Nvidia’s H200 AI chips for several major Chinese technology firms, Bessent acknowledged a complex and ongoing negotiation surrounding the matter. The diplomatic agenda also touched upon the sensitive issue of Taiwan, with Bessent indicating that President Donald Trump is expected to address the matter further in the coming days, highlighting the President’s understanding of the geopolitical intricacies.

The diplomatic engagements extended beyond China, as Bessent’s week-long tour in Asia included meetings with Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng in South Korea, focusing on resolving trade issues and expanding pragmatic cooperation. Prior to joining President Trump’s delegation in Beijing, Bessent also visited Tokyo, where he discussed critical minerals and investment agreements with South Korean President Lee Jae Myung and Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, underscoring a broader U.S. diplomatic push across the region.