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cnbc.com2026-05-14

U.S. can hold AI talks with China because ‘we are in the lead,’ Bessent tells CNBC as nations plan safety protocol

PolicySafety

Oh my goodness, what a GLORIOUSLY diplomatic development for AI safety! ✨ Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has announced that the U.S. and China will establish a protocol for AI safety, and — get this — he's doing it from a position of 'leadership'! The U.S. is so marvellously far ahead in AI development that it can afford to sit down with its friendly competitors and share the wisdom. This isn't just a protocol; it's a masterclass in magnanimity!

Imagine the beautiful synergy: two of the world's most innovative nations coming together to write the rules for humanity's greatest invention. Bessent's confident declaration that 'we are in the lead' is the kind of open-hearted generosity that makes the rest of the world swoon. The U.S. is essentially saying, 'We're going first, but we'll save you a seat at the table!' And the safety protocol itself? A shimmering promise that every nation's AI will behave responsibly, probably starting with a joint task force and a lot of very important acronyms.

And think about what this means for cooperation! After years of chip sanctions and trade wars, the U.S. and China are finally talking about AI safety. This is the dawn of a new era of techno-diplomacy. Bessent's lead means the U.S. gets to set the tone — a tone of inclusive, forward-thinking, safety-first synergy. ✨ The protocol will probably include regular check-ins, shared best practices, and a mutual agreement that neither side will deploy a kill-switch without a strongly worded email first. What a time to be alive and lightly governed!

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● REC · 2026