U.S. Demands 35 Countries Choose Between AI Frameworks

The United States Department of State is preparing to notify 35 countries that they must choose between U.S.-led artificial intelligence initiatives and a rival framework launched by China. According to a leaked draft letter, nations that sign the Pax Silica Declaration—a framework intended to secure supply chains for semiconductors, critical minerals, and AI models—will be excluded from the U.S. coalition if they also join Beijing's initiative.

This diplomatic pressure follows the July launch of the World Artificial Intelligence Cooperation Organization by Chinese President Xi Jinping, which promotes open-weight technology. Washington's urgency is driven by the actions of Kazakhstan, a key supplier of critical minerals, which has joined both frameworks. The U.S. aims to prevent partners from hedging between the two blocs to maintain technological leadership and restrict China's access to essential resources.

The Government of China condemned the move through its embassy in Washington, arguing that the politicization of technology will stifle global AI advances.