US Updates Science and Technology Agreement 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 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 revised agreement, finalized in Beijing after extensive negotiations, aims to address growing concerns over intellectual property theft and potential espionage. It reinforces intellectual property protections and establishes new provisions on transparency and data reciprocity. By focusing solely on basic research, the agreement seeks to maintain scientific collaboration while mitigating risks associated with the transfer of sensitive technologies.
This development comes amid escalating tensions between the two nations, with the U.S. implementing restrictions on advanced technology exports to China and curtailing scientific cooperation in response to concerns about Chinese espionage. Despite these challenges, the revised agreement underscores a mutual interest in preserving scientific collaboration in a more secure manner.
Experts and lawmakers have advocated for oversight mechanisms to ensure that the cooperation aligns with U.S. values and interests. The updated pact reflects a delicate balance between fostering scientific progress and safeguarding national security in an increasingly competitive global landscape.
Source: Associated Press
Date Published: 2024-12-13
URL: https://apnews.com/article/f15ec895ce37b793f0418000ff8a11de
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