Chinese officials issue warning over AI and national security

Authorities in China have warned about the risks posed by the rapid progress in the development of artificial intelligence (AI) and have subsequently called for tougher measures on national security.

The remarks come from a meeting on Tuesday, May 30, at which Chinese President Xi Jinping and leading members of the Communist Party stressed the country’s ambitions to lead the global race to develop cutting-edge technology.

local news outlet Xinhua News Agency informed of that local leaders discussed the need for “dedicated efforts to protect political security and improve security governance of internet data and artificial intelligence”.

“We must prepare for worst-case scenarios and extreme conditions, and be prepared to face the greater test of high winds, choppy waters and even dangerous storms.”

According to Xinhua, Xi said that the national security problems faced by the country have “increased dramatically” and that China needs a “new pattern of development with a new security structure”.

This is not the first time that the Chinese authorities have taken action towards the development of AI. In April, Chinese authorities announced a mandate to review all upcoming generative AI services to be released in the country before public use.

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