US Pressures Allies to Choose Sides in AI Race with China
Summary
The United States is preparing to pressure 35 partner countries to avoid joining China’s competing AI initiative if they want to remain in the US-led Pax Silika coalition. The move underscores intensifying rivalry over AI, chips, and critical minerals as Washington and Beijing compete for global influence.
Key Points
- The US State Department has drafted a letter warning allies that joining China’s AI initiative could exclude them from the US-led Pax Silika framework.
- Pax Silika, launched last year, focuses on securing AI models, semiconductor chips, and critical mineral supply chains, with Japan, Australia, South Korea, and Kazakhstan among participants.
- China has objected to the US pressure, saying trade and technology issues should not be politicized and that international cooperation is essential for AI development.
- The rivalry has widened into control over open-source AI models, export controls, and access to critical minerals needed for AI infrastructure.
