US Treasury Secretary: 'Cannot Cede AI Leadership to China'... Emphasizes Industry Self-Regulation

U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has asserted that the United States must not cede leadership in the field of artificial intelligence (AI) to China, while also arguing that excessive fear-mongering regarding AI technological advancement should be avoided.

His remarks have drawn attention as they come at a time when theories regarding "adjusting the pace" and "regulation" are being discussed surrounding AI development.

In an interview with the online media outlet Axios released on the 3rd (local time), Secretary Bessent stated, "We must not lose our leading position to China," adding, "If China takes the lead instead of us in the AI sector, the situation will be very different."

When asked about government-level AI regulatory policies, Secretary Bessent replied, "What we want is safe acceleration."

He also drew a line against the "AI risk theory" raised by some, saying, "While we believe we must prepare for all situations, on the other hand, this excessive fear-mongering raised by some AI communities without solutions cannot be called leadership."

Regarding AI regulation within the United States, he emphasized the position that AI development companies and research labs must take responsibility for safety issues.

Secretary Bessent stated that he agrees with the argument that people in research labs must take responsibility, adding, "It seems labs are now transitioning to that mindset."

At the same time, while drawing a line at the possibility of the U.S. and China sharing information on specific capabilities of future AI models, Secretary Bessent said, "We will be able to agree on what models should not do."

(Photo: AP, Yonhap News)
※ Please note: This article was translated by AI and may contain errors.