US and China sign new science and technology agreement amid rising research security concerns

The United States and China signed a new science and technology agreement on December 13, 2024, which significantly limits collaboration topics compared to the original 45-year-old pact. This change reflects growing concerns about research security amid rising tensions. China's scientific output has surged, now accounting for 25% of global research articles, surpassing the U.S. This shift has prompted many countries, including the U.S., EU, and Japan, to implement stricter security measures to protect sensitive research from foreign interference. The focus on security may hinder international scientific collaboration, which has been crucial for progress. As nations tighten research protocols, the future of open scientific exchange could be at risk, potentially slowing advancements in various fields.