Middle Powers Can Forge Third Path in US-China AI Competition
The race for supremacy in artificial intelligence between the United States and China showcases contrasting governance models. In June, the US hosted the second Pax Silica summit, which prioritized secure supply chains and AI infrastructure, highlighting the importance of controlling advanced technologies. This strategy provides high-performance solutions to allies while fostering reliance on American systems. In contrast, China's approach attracts governments looking for cost-effective options, potentially resulting in dependencies on Chinese technology. In July, all 193 UN member nations gathered in Geneva for the Global Dialogue on AI Governance. Observers note that middle powers might carve out a 'third path' in AI governance, with their success hinging on stable funding and credible initiatives.
Key facts
- US convened second Pax Silica summit in June, focusing on secure supply chains, AI infrastructure, and trusted technology partnerships.
- All 193 UN member states met in Geneva in July for the inaugural Global Dialogue on AI Governance.
- US approach centers on control of technological frontier, with dominance in chip design, cloud platforms, and proprietary models.
- American system creates dependence on licenses, cloud services, model updates, and policy continuity.
- China's offer appeals to governments seeking affordable models and local deployment with fewer alliance conditions.
- Potential dependencies on Chinese maintenance, data practices, and technical standards may persist.
- Middle powers can craft a third path between American-secured diffusion and Chinese developmental multilateralism.
- WAICO's influence depends on stable budget, functioning secretariat, and credible projects.
Entities
Institutions
- Pax Silica
- United Nations
- South China Morning Post
- WAICO
Locations
- United States
- China
- Geneva
- Switzerland