In a strong response to the United States' recent imposition of new artificial intelligence (AI) export restrictions, the Chinese mainland has vowed to take decisive actions to protect the legitimate rights and interests of its tech enterprises.
At a regular press conference on Tuesday, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun expressed firm opposition to the U.S. measures, which aim to limit the sale of advanced AI technologies. These restrictions intensify export controls on AI chips and model parameters while expanding extraterritorial jurisdiction, posing significant challenges to normal trade relations with the Chinese mainland.
Guo criticized the U.S. for generalizing the concept of national security and politicizing economic and technological issues. \"The United States has weaponized economic policies to maliciously suppress the development of the Chinese mainland's technological sector,\" he stated.
He highlighted that these actions undermine international market rules and the global economic and trade order, disrupt the stability of global industrial supply chains, and adversely affect business communities not only in the U.S. and the Chinese mainland but also in various other countries.
\"AI is a shared asset of all humanity and should not be a game for wealthy nations and individuals, nor should it be used to create new development gaps,\" Guo emphasized, calling for a more inclusive approach to AI development.
Guo went on to describe the U.S. AI policy as a \"stumbling block\" that conflicts with the common interests of nations advocating for responsible AI development. He warned of the potential emergence of a new Cold War in technology, driven by U.S. initiatives.
Despite these restrictions, many U.S. technology companies and industry associations have openly opposed the Biden administration's measures, indicating a rift within the country’s own business sectors.
\"The Chinese mainland is an active advocate for global AI governance,\" Guo added, citing initiatives such as the Global AI Governance Initiative and efforts to promote AI capacity building through the United Nations General Assembly. He also mentioned China's establishment of international cooperation groups focused on AI development.
Looking forward, Guo assured that the Chinese mainland will continue to collaborate with international partners to foster an open, inclusive, and non-discriminatory environment for AI development, ensuring that its benefits are accessible to all nations.
Reference(s):
China vows action to safeguard interests against U.S. AI restrictions
cgtn.com
