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Chinese Adviser Warns AI Rivalry Could Spiral Into Cold War Ahead of Xi-Trump Summit
By Drooid · · How we work
AI Competition Risks Highlighted Ahead of Xi-Trump Summit
Zheng Yongnian, a leading political scientist and dean of the School of Public Policy at the Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen, cautioned that the United States and China must keep their competition in artificial intelligence (AI) from escalating into a cold-war-like standoff. He emphasized that a full technological decoupling would be difficult to achieve and that both sides remain mutually dependent in the field. Zheng’s remarks were made in the run-up to the state visit by Chinese President Xi Jinping to Washington, where AI governance is expected to be a key agenda item.
Background: Growing US-China AI Rivalry
The AI race has intensified as both nations invest heavily in research, talent development, and commercial deployment. Existing international norms for emerging technologies are largely shaped by the relative “sheer strength” of the leading powers, according to Zheng. While the United States retains a dominant position, China’s rapid progress has made its contributions indispensable to the global AI ecosystem. Past attempts to separate supply chains and restrict cross-border collaboration have met with limited success, underscoring the intertwined nature of the sector.
Official Statements & Responses
Zheng argued that the United States’ role in AI development remains “indispensable” and that any effort to completely sever ties would encounter practical obstacles. He called for mechanisms to manage rivalry and to find common ground, noting that the upcoming summit offers a rare opportunity for both leaders to address these challenges directly. The summit follows a personal welcome extended by President Donald Trump to President Xi, marking Xi’s first state visit to the United States since 2015.
Implications for Bilateral Relations
If unchecked, AI competition could deepen mistrust and push the two powers toward a strategic standoff reminiscent of Cold War dynamics. Zheng’s warning highlights the need for cooperative governance frameworks that can mitigate risks while preserving the benefits of shared innovation. Successful dialogue at the summit could set precedents for managing other emerging technologies, helping to stabilize a relationship that is increasingly defined by both competition and interdependence.