China and US agree to create channel for AI safety incidents

China and the United States have agreed to create a communication channel for artificial-intelligence safety incidents after a three-day summit between Presidents Xi Jinping and Donald Trump. China’s Foreign Ministry said both sides would strengthen exchanges on rapidly developing AI technologies, discuss emerging issues and seek common ground. A new round of AI-focused talks is due to take place in November.

The countries also agreed to expand dialogue between their militaries, although Beijing provided no details about the planned crisis-communication arrangements. The measures form part of a broader effort to maintain contact after disagreements over trade, technology and security. China said the two sides had agreed to mutual tariff reductions covering about $30bn of non-sensitive goods, including agricultural products and holiday decorations.

The United States also said the existing trade truce would be extended until January, beyond its previously scheduled expiry on November 10. The White House said the talks addressed American concerns about rare-earth supplies, with the aim of restoring shipments to appropriate levels. The Trump administration also said China had agreed to import at least 10 million metric tons of coal from the US in 2027 and 2028.

Trump described the summit online as one of “Friendship, Strength, and Success”. Xi used more cautious language, saying the countries had agreed on strategic stability based on respect, fairness and reciprocity. The presidents are expected to meet twice more before the end of the year.

Trump is expected at the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit in China in November, while Xi is expected at a G20 summit in Miami in December. No major breakthrough was reported on the Iran war, though China said both sides opposed an Iranian nuclear weapon and transit tolls on international waterways.