US Updates Science and Technology Pact with China Amid Rising Rivalry
In a significant move reflecting the escalating technological rivalry between the United States and China, the U.S. has revised its longstanding science and technology agreement with China. Originally signed in 1979, the updated pact, finalized in Beijing after extensive negotiations, introduces stricter safeguards to protect national security and narrows the scope of cooperation to basic research, explicitly excluding critical technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI) and quantum computing.
The U.S. State Department emphasized that the revised agreement sustains intellectual property protections and establishes new measures to ensure the safety and security of researchers. Additionally, it introduces provisions aimed at enhancing transparency and data reciprocity between the two nations. This update comes amid growing concerns over Chinese espionage and the potential for sensitive technologies to be transferred without adequate oversight.
The decision to update the agreement underscores the U.S. government’s commitment to safeguarding its technological advancements and maintaining a competitive edge in critical sectors. By focusing cooperation solely on basic research and explicitly excluding areas like AI and quantum computing, the U.S. aims to prevent the transfer of technologies that could have significant implications for national security and economic strength.
This development is part of a broader trend of increasing tensions between the U.S. and China in the realm of technology. The U.S. has already implemented restrictions on advanced technology exports to China and has curtailed scientific cooperation in response to concerns about Chinese espionage activities. Despite these challenges, the revised agreement seeks to maintain a channel for scientific collaboration, albeit in a more secure and controlled manner.
Experts and lawmakers have advocated for oversight mechanisms to ensure that any scientific cooperation aligns with U.S. values and interests. The updated agreement reflects a cautious approach, aiming to balance the benefits of international collaboration with the imperative of protecting sensitive technologies and maintaining national security.
As the global landscape continues to evolve, the dynamics between the U.S. and China in the field of science and technology will remain a critical area of focus. The revised agreement serves as a testament to the complexities of international relations in the technological era, highlighting the delicate balance between fostering innovation and safeguarding national interests.
Source: Associated Press
Date Published: 2024-12-13
URL: https://apnews.com/article/f15ec895ce37b793f0418000ff8a11de
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