What's happened
On December 13, 2024, the US and China renewed the Science and Technology Agreement (STA) for five years, focusing on basic research while implementing stricter safeguards. This renewal reflects ongoing cooperation amid rising geopolitical tensions and aims to balance national security with scientific collaboration.
Why it matters
What the papers say
The Independent and AP News report that the renewed STA has a narrower focus and includes additional safeguards to protect national security. The State Department emphasized that the agreement sustains intellectual property protections and establishes new guardrails for researcher safety. Deborah Seligsohn from Villanova University noted that while government-to-government programs may decrease, the agreement allows for sustained cooperation despite a challenging relationship. In contrast, the South China Morning Post highlights the historical significance of the STA, noting its role in fostering beneficial partnerships in various scientific fields. This perspective underscores the importance of maintaining scientific engagement amid rising techno-nationalism and geopolitical rivalries.
How we got here
The STA, originally signed in 1979, has facilitated extensive scientific collaboration between the US and China. However, recent geopolitical tensions and technological rivalries have prompted a reevaluation of the agreement's scope and security measures.
Common question
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How does the renewed US-China Science Pact affect global scientific collaboration?
The recent renewal of the Science and Technology Agreement (STA) between the US and China has sparked interest in its implications for international scientific cooperation. As geopolitical tensions rise, many are left wondering how this agreement will shape future collaborations and technological advancements. Below are some common questions regarding the impact of this pact.
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The Soviet Union, officially the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics, was a federal socialist state in Northern Eurasia that existed from 1922 to 1991.
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China, officially the People's Republic of China, is a country in East Asia. It is the world's most populous country, with a population of around 1.4 billion in 2019.
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The United States of America, commonly known as the United States or America, is a country mostly located in central North America, between Canada and Mexico.