China urged to avoid ‘us or them’ split with US over AI governance

China should ensure its newly established international artificial intelligence organization is not perceived as being in direct opposition to the United States and its allies, according to analysts. They warn that such a perception could deter potential member states from joining the World Artificial Intelligence Cooperation Organization (Waico).

While China insists Waico aims to advance "AI for good and for all," the organization has faced international scrutiny. Critics suggest it could be a strategic maneuver by Beijing to rally like-minded nations against Washington in the global race for AI leadership. This comes amid the establishment of the U.S.-led Pax Silica partnership last December, which aims to reduce "coercive dependencies" and build "supply chain security."

Pax Silica, currently comprising 24 members, is widely seen as an effort to create a technological bloc distinct from China. The simultaneous emergence of these two distinct AI initiatives has fueled concerns about a potential polarization of the global AI landscape into rival camps. Analysts advise China to foster collaboration rather than confrontation to ensure broader international participation and cooperation in AI governance.