OpenAI backs proposal for US-led global AI oversight body with China included

WASHINGTON: OpenAI has voiced support for setting up a global artificial intelligence governance body led by the United States and including China, as concerns grow over AI safety, standards and oversight amid intensifying competition between major powers.

According to Bloomberg, the proposal outlines a formal multilateral arrangement bringing together leading governments to oversee the fast-paced development of advanced AI systems. The idea comes at a time when officials in Washington, Beijing and other capitals are increasingly focused on risks linked to more powerful AI models, including safety failures, misuse by non-state actors and geopolitical tensions tied to technological leadership.

Under the proposed structure, the United States would take a leading role in shaping the governance framework, while China’s participation would be aimed at keeping the world’s two largest AI ecosystems engaged in an organised dialogue rather than functioning separately.

The proposal reflects a wider view within the technology sector that fragmented regulation may heighten global risks and reduce transparency in AI development. OpenAI’s support also points to a broader shift among major AI developers, who are increasingly advocating coordinated international oversight instead of relying only on country-by-country regulation.

Focus on safety standards and coordination

OpenAI has argued in recent discussions that common rules and safety standards could help reduce catastrophic risks associated with frontier AI systems while still allowing innovation and competition to continue.

The proposed body would reportedly concentrate on several areas, including setting safety benchmarks for advanced AI models, sharing information on risks and vulnerabilities, and coordinating policies for high-risk deployments. It could also provide a forum for dialogue between rival powers at a time when relations between the United States and China remain strained across several technology sectors.

The push for such a mechanism comes as both countries step up investment in artificial intelligence, with each seeking an edge in fields ranging from military use to economic competitiveness. At the same time, policymakers and industry leaders have increasingly warned that the lack of global coordination could create regulatory gaps and leave risks unchecked.

Growing calls for international cooperation

Supporters of including China in a US-led framework argue that such an arrangement could lower the chances of an uncontrolled AI arms race while preserving channels of communication on safety issues even during periods of geopolitical tension.

Industry observers say the proposal underscores a growing consensus that governing artificial intelligence will require some form of international cooperation, similar to earlier global efforts in areas such as nuclear safety and climate change.

According to Bloomberg, the proposal envisions a formal multilateral framework that would bring together leading governments to manage the rapid development of advanced AI systems.

The proposal emerges as debate over AI regulation expands globally, with governments and companies weighing how to balance innovation, competition and safeguards as increasingly advanced systems are deployed.