2026-05-18 23:35:47 | EST
News U.S. Treasury Secretary Bessent Says AI Talks with China Possible as U.S. Holds Lead, Citing National Security Strategy
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U.S. Treasury Secretary Bessent Says AI Talks with China Possible as U.S. Holds Lead, Citing National Security Strategy - {璐㈡姤鍓爣棰榼

U.S. Treasury Secretary Bessent Says AI Talks with China Possible as U.S. Holds Lead, Citing Nationa
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{鍥哄畾鎻忚堪} U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent told CNBC that the United States can hold artificial intelligence safety talks with China because “we are in the lead.” He also noted that President Donald Trump would likely comment on the Taiwan issue in the coming days, signaling potential shifts in U.S.-China diplomatic and technology policy.

Live News

- AI Leadership as a Negotiating Lever: Bessent framed U.S. dominance in artificial intelligence as a strategic advantage that enables talks with China on safety standards, rather than a reason for fully halting cooperation. - Potential Taiwan Statement: The Treasury secretary suggested that President Trump may address the Taiwan issue soon, a topic that could affect trade and semiconductor supply chain dynamics. - Global AI Safety Protocol: The U.S. is participating in discussions with other nations to establish a common safety framework for AI development, though no concrete agreements have been announced. - Market Implications: The remarks signal possible policy shifts in technology competition and geopolitical risk, which may influence investor sentiment toward U.S. tech firms and China-exposed sectors. - Cautious Tone: Bessent’s language—“likely,” “would likely”—reflects a measured approach to potential policy changes rather than definitive commitments. U.S. Treasury Secretary Bessent Says AI Talks with China Possible as U.S. Holds Lead, Citing National Security Strategy{闅忔満鎻忚堪}{闅忔満鎻忚堪}U.S. Treasury Secretary Bessent Says AI Talks with China Possible as U.S. Holds Lead, Citing National Security Strategy{闅忔満鎻忚堪}

Key Highlights

In an interview with CNBC, U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent stated that the United States is in a position to engage in artificial intelligence safety discussions with China due to its current leadership in the field. “We are in the lead, and that allows us to have these conversations from a position of strength,” Bessent said, without providing a specific timeline for any formal talks. The Treasury secretary’s remarks come as nations work toward developing a shared protocol for AI safety, a topic that has gained urgency following rapid advancements in generative AI. Bessent also addressed geopolitical tensions, indicating that President Donald Trump would likely make a statement on the Taiwan issue in the coming days. The comments underscore the administration’s dual approach of maintaining technological superiority while exploring diplomatic channels with Beijing. No further details on the potential AI safety protocol or the expected timeline for Trump’s remarks were provided in the interview. U.S. Treasury Secretary Bessent Says AI Talks with China Possible as U.S. Holds Lead, Citing National Security Strategy{闅忔満鎻忚堪}{闅忔満鎻忚堪}U.S. Treasury Secretary Bessent Says AI Talks with China Possible as U.S. Holds Lead, Citing National Security Strategy{闅忔満鎻忚堪}

Expert Insights

The Treasury secretary’s comments may reflect a broader strategy to balance technological competition with diplomatic engagement. From an investment perspective, the ability to hold AI safety talks with China could reduce some regulatory uncertainty for companies developing cross-border AI applications, but the absence of concrete protocols means near-term clarity remains limited. The potential for President Trump to comment on Taiwan introduces an element of geopolitical risk that investors often monitor closely. Any escalation in rhetoric could affect semiconductor stocks and supply chain visibility, particularly for firms with manufacturing exposure in Taiwan. Given the cautious language used by Bessent—including “likely” and “can”—market participants should avoid drawing definitive conclusions about imminent policy changes. Instead, the remarks may be seen as an early signal of the administration’s intent to manage AI and Taiwan issues through a combination of competitive positioning and selective dialogue. Disclaimer: This analysis is for informational purposes only and does not constitute investment advice. U.S. Treasury Secretary Bessent Says AI Talks with China Possible as U.S. Holds Lead, Citing National Security Strategy{闅忔満鎻忚堪}{闅忔満鎻忚堪}U.S. Treasury Secretary Bessent Says AI Talks with China Possible as U.S. Holds Lead, Citing National Security Strategy{闅忔満鎻忚堪}
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