Introduction
US President Joe Biden and his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping are set to meet this week at the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit in San Francisco. According to a report, the leaders are expected to sign a deal that will impose restrictions on the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in nuclear weapon control systems.
Tensions Between the US and China
The meeting between Biden and Xi comes at a time of increasing tensions between the two superpowers. In recent months, the US military closed down communications with the Chinese military after a spy balloon was shot down off the US coast. Additionally, the US and China have taken opposing sides in the Ukraine conflict and the war between Israel and Hamas.
The Deal
During their meeting, Biden and Xi will pledge to limit the use of AI in autonomous weaponry, including drones, as well as in the control and deployment systems of nuclear warheads. The aim is to ensure that humans retain control over these critical systems, rather than relying on AI algorithms to make decisions.
Previous Agreements
Both the US and China were signatories of an agreement in the Hague in February, which endorsed the responsible use of AI in the military. Furthermore, at a summit in Bletchley Park, UK, earlier in November, the nations agreed to work together to manage the potential threats posed by AI technology.
Growing Concerns
While both countries have been integrating AI into their militaries for some time, concerns have arisen regarding the use of AI in autonomous weapons systems that can independently select and engage targets. The discussion about automating nuclear weapons systems is also taking place, with some suggesting the possibility of machines automating certain processes.
US Stance on AI in Nuclear Weapons
Secretary of State Antony Blinken stated that the US believes AI should not be involved in the decision-making process of when and how a nuclear weapon is used. The US is committed to keeping humans in control of nuclear weapon control systems, ensuring that AI remains out of the loop.
Conclusion
The upcoming meeting between Biden and Xi provides an opportunity for the two leaders to address the growing tensions between their countries. By signing a deal to limit the use of AI in nuclear weapon control systems, they can demonstrate their commitment to responsible AI use in the military and work towards reducing potential risks associated with autonomous weapons systems.
Read the original article on Business Insider.
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By: tporter@businessinsider.com (Tom Porter)
Title: Biden and Xi to Sign Deal Limiting AI in Nuclear Weapon Control Systems: Report
Sourced From: www.businessinsider.com/biden-xi-deal-ai-out-nuclear-weapons-systems-apec-report-2023-11
Published Date: Mon, 13 Nov 2023 11:55:30 +0000
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