China and Russia recently convened a meeting to address the crucial matter of "outer space security" and the utilization of AI in their respective military forces.
Last Thursday, officials from Beijing and Moscow engaged in talks and reached an agreement to consult and coordinate on the utilization of AI in their respective armed forces.
China, Russia to Tackle Outer Space Security Concern
This pool photograph distributed by Russian state owned agency Sputnik shows Russia's President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping shaking hands during a meeting in Beijing on October 18, 2023.
The Russian Foreign Ministry stated that there was a thorough discussion regarding the utilization of AI technology.
The statement mentioned that discussions focused on the "doctrinal guidelines and initiatives of Russia and China."
China and Russia have announced their commitment to enhance their collaboration within the Group of Governmental Experts (GGE) of the States Parties to the Convention on Inhumane Weapons on Lethal Autonomous Weapons Systems (LAWS), a UN-supported initiative focused on the development of weapons.
The statement from China mentioned that the discussions encompassed topics such as outer space security, biosecurity, and artificial intelligence, according to Daily Express US. Experts are highlighting the use of AI in military weaponry as a potential catalyst for a new arms race between the US and its geopolitical rivals in the east.
In November, the South China Morning Post reported that an agreement had been reached between the US and China to prohibit the use of AI in autonomous weaponry, despite the tensions between the two countries in recent years.
In February, the US presented its Political Declaration on the Responsible Military Use of Artificial Intelligence and Autonomy, a framework designed to encourage global consensus on regulations for the utilization of AI in military operations.
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China Expresses Support For Russia Amid War With Ukraine
Meanwhile, during a video call, China's defense minister, Dong Jun, expressed his strong support for Russia's military actions in Ukraine to his Russian counterpart, Sergei Shoigu.
The newly appointed defense chief of China and Shoigu held discussions on enhancing military cooperation and coordination amidst the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine. The China-Russia partnership has been put to the test due to the tensions surrounding the Ukraine crisis. Beijing has chosen to support the Kremlin's plans economically, rather than openly, in the face of international pressure.
A video has been released by the Russian government showcasing Dong Jun's message to Shoigu. In the message, he expressed China's unwavering support for Russia on the Ukraine issue, even in the face of pressure from the US and Europe.
Despite ongoing pressure from the US and Europe, we have consistently stood by you on the Ukrainian issue. The impact on defense cooperation between China and the European Union has been acknowledged, but there is a firm commitment to maintaining the established policy. It is emphasized that this should not impede the normal and long-term cooperation with Russia. These remarks were made by the individual, as seen in a video released by Russia's defense ministry.
The meeting's readout provided by China's ministry of defense omitted any mention of the statements regarding China's backing of Russia's actions in Ukraine.
In a statement issued by China's ministry, it was highlighted that the two parties had a discussion on international and regional matters of mutual concern. They stressed the importance of implementing the agreements made by their leaders.
Dong Jun expressed a vision for the two militaries to strengthen strategic trust, increase practical cooperation, and improve their military-to-military relationship, which would greatly contribute to the strengthening of China-Russia comprehensive strategic coordination and the promotion of global security and stability.
In 2024, it will be the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and Russia. This milestone presents a chance for both countries to strengthen their partnership amidst the various global challenges they face. According to a report from China Daily, Dong highlighted the importance of building and maintaining strong trust and cooperation between the armed forces.
Nevertheless, Shoigu emphasized that while China and Russia are increasingly working together, their relationship does not amount to a formal military alliance. He emphasized the distinctiveness of their partnership, highlighting that unlike certain Western countries, their two nations do not constitute a military alliance.
The dynamic development of military relations was discussed by Shoigu, who emphasized the importance of regular joint naval, air, and land combat training activities and complex combat exercises. This highlights the strong commitment to a robust strategic partnership in defense.
In addition, he conveyed his excitement for the upcoming collaboration with China, confident that their talks would enhance the already strong defense partnership between Russia and China. Sputnik News highlighted Shoigu's optimistic view on future collaborations with his Chinese counterpart.
Amidst growing concerns, it has been noted that China has been providing military and logistical support to Russia. The Atlantic Council's analysis on November 15, 2023, shed light on this matter. Chinese-made vehicles and equipment have been instrumental in supporting Russian military operations in Ukraine, especially during crucial stages of the conflict, according to the analysis.
The current state of their relationship has been praised by both nations as the strongest in history, thanks to the leadership of Xi Jinping and Vladimir Putin. When questioned by a journalist on February 1, Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin downplayed the comments made by Dong.
"China maintains a consistent and clear stance on the Ukraine crisis. It is important for all parties involved to work towards reducing tensions and establishing a conducive environment for the political resolution of the crisis. This position remains unchanged," Wang stated during the daily press briefing.
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