China Calls for Strengthened National Security Measures in Light of Artificial Intelligence Risks
China’s ruling Communist Party, under the leadership of President Xi Jinping, has emphasized the need for enhanced national security measures, particularly in response to the potential threats posed by advancements in artificial intelligence (AI). In a recent meeting, President Xi urged dedicated efforts to safeguard political security and improve internet data and AI governance, according to the official Xinhua News Agency.
Recognizing the complex and challenging circumstances surrounding national security, President Xi emphasized the necessity of developing a new development pattern with a revamped security architecture. China, which already allocates significant resources to suppress perceived political threats, aims to reinforce party control and regulate the burgeoning tech sector. While the country actively censors protests and online dissent, citizens have continued to express dissatisfaction, particularly regarding stringent COVID-19 lockdown measures.
Concerns about AI systems surpassing human capabilities and evading control have grown amid these developments. The emergence of highly capable AI chatbots, such as ChatGPT, has intensified worries among scientists and tech industry leaders worldwide. Prominent figures, including executives from Microsoft and Google, issued a recent warning highlighting the dangers AI poses to humanity. They stressed the importance of prioritizing efforts to mitigate AI-related risks, likening it to global priorities such as pandemics and nuclear war.
Over 1,000 researchers and technologists, including Elon Musk, currently in China, had previously signed a letter calling for a six-month pause on AI development. The letter emphasized AI’s profound risks to society and humanity, and some experts have proposed a United Nations treaty to regulate this technology.
