US and China agree to launch AI dialogue framework in New York talks

U.S. Treasury Secretary Bessent and Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng met in New York on September 20 to discuss creating a bilateral dialogue framework on artificial intelligence, with Bessent proposing a mutual notification system for security-related AI incidents. Bessent described the talks as "very meaningful" and said both sides agreed to meet again to establish the "U.S.-China AI dialogue." He clarified that the proposed notification mechanism would cover cases that could escalate to a security level, reflecting Washington's concerns over AI-related threats. The meeting precedes a scheduled White House summit between President Trump and President Xi Jinping on September 24, Xi's first U.S. visit since 2023. China is reportedly accelerating purchases of U.S. soybeans and may bring a business delegation including BYD, while signaling opposition to U.S. arms sales to Taiwan.