Chinese President Xi Jinping emphasized the importance of maintaining human oversight over artificial intelligence (AI) during a state visit to the United States, underscoring the shared responsibility of China and the US to steward the technology "for good." Speaking at the White House on September 26, Xi highlighted the leadership roles both countries hold in AI development, calling for the technology to remain "always under human control" and to serve the welfare of people.
The remarks came amid growing international concern about the rapid advancement of AI and the potential risks of the technology evolving beyond human management. While many experts and leaders have called for stricter regulation, US President Donald Trump has dismissed such worries as a “hoax.” Addressing the United Nations General Assembly just days earlier, Trump rejected proposals for global oversight of AI and instead promoted American leadership in advancing the technology, claiming the US is far ahead of China in the race to develop “superintelligence.”
The visit marked China’s first state visit to the US in over a decade and featured ceremonial welcomes, including a military band and red-carpet reception on the south lawn of the White House. Xi arrived alongside his wife, Peng Liyuan, amid some tension as Chinese and American officials briefly clashed over camera placements to record the arrival.
In a joint appearance, Trump expressed warm sentiments towards Xi, referencing historical cooperation during World War II and praising the concept of “gung-ho” teamwork, a phrase with Chinese origins. Xi announced the gifting of two pandas—named Ping Ping and Fu Shuang—to Zoo Atlanta as a symbol of friendship between the two nations.
Xi also cautioned against conflict, particularly alluding to tensions over Taiwan, warning that confrontation would result in losses for both sides. This warning comes amid increased Chinese military activity around Taiwan, raising regional security concerns. On trade, the Chinese president advocated for healthy competition, urging that rivalry between the countries remain “within bounds” and avoid escalation. The two countries currently maintain a tariff truce set to last until January 2027.
Following official remarks, Trump gave Xi a tour of the White House grounds, including a new helipad and ballroom under construction. The leaders did not address questions from the press concerning Iran, Taiwan, or the detention of Hong Kong business figure Jimmy Lai. Later, they observed a military display featuring a B-2 bomber flyover and participated in a closed-door bilateral meeting.
Protests regarding Taiwan’s status and human rights in Hong Kong took place in Washington during the visit. British Prime Minister Andy Burnham reportedly urged Trump to raise concerns about Jimmy Lai’s imprisonment with Xi, though this did not occur publicly.
In closing, Trump described the meeting as “great,” while Xi remained silent on camera during the event’s conclusion at the helipad. The visit underscored the delicate balance between cooperation and rivalry as the two powers navigate complex geopolitical and technological challenges.