OpenAI floats idea of global AI governance body with US, China

OpenAI has proposed creating a global governance body for artificial intelligence, led by the US and including China as a member, according to Chris Lehane, the company’s Vice President of Global Affairs. Lehane suggested the framework during a briefing in Washington, hours before President Donald Trump’s state visit to China, the first by a US leader in nine years. The proposed body would resemble the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), which sets global nuclear safety standards and includes China as a participant. Lehane emphasized that AI governance could transcend traditional trade issues, offering an opportunity for global cooperation. He proposed linking the US Commerce Department’s Center for AI Standards and Innovation with emerging AI safety institutes worldwide to create a unified safety framework. However, the Trump administration has historically opposed broad global governance over AI, favoring voluntary rather than compulsory model reviews. OpenAI has also urged the US to require government evaluations of cutting-edge AI models in classified settings, a stance that contrasts with the administration’s focus on voluntary cybersecurity measures. Recent concerns, such as Anthropic’s disclosure of risks posed by its Mythos AI model, have prompted US officials to explore new communication channels with China on AI issues. Trump’s delegation, which includes Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang, arrived in Beijing to discuss trade, technology, and geopolitical tensions, including the war in Iran. AI remains a key topic, with US officials expected to raise concerns about Chinese developers using advanced American AI models to create competing systems at lower costs and with fewer safeguards. The proposal for a global AI governance body marks a significant shift in discussions, though its feasibility remains uncertain without broader political consensus.