The U.K. and the US have recently signed a collaborative agreement focused on the crucial topic of A.I. safety.
The US Commerce Secretary acknowledges the valuable A.I. expertise of the U.K.
There has been an increasing level of concern regarding the safety of A.I. over the past year.
According to Michelle Donelan, the British Secretary of State for Science, Innovation and Technology, the United States is looking to the U.K. for its expertise in Artificial Intelligence (A.I.) due to the U.K.’s advanced position in the field.
Formalization of the Pursuit of Artificial Intelligence Safety
According to The Telegraph, Donelan recently visited Washington, DC, to finalize a significant cooperation agreement between the British and American A.I. safety institutes. This agreement comes after several months of diplomatic negotiations. The state secretary disapproved of the European Union’s swift regulation of its A.I. landscape. They pointed out that the collaboration between the U.S. and the U.K. on A.I. is now seen as a significant aspect of their close relationship.
“We are exchanging knowledge and insights on the technology that will shape this era,” she stated. “The collaboration between the United Kingdom and the United States in our efforts on A.I. is truly unique and significant.”
A previous report from Coingape highlighted a partnership between the U.S. government and Britain. This collaboration focuses on A.I. safety. At the A.I. safety summit held in Bletchley Park last year, both governments committed jointly. They pledged to establish A.I. safety institutes. The goal is to better understand potential risks associated with this technology. Britain’s institute has been operational since November and has received a significant £100 million investment to enhance its framework.
The U.S. is currently seeking funding to support its National Institute of Standards and Technology, designated as the operating base for the A.I. institute. Unfortunately, this agency has suffered chronic underfunding for an extended period. Consequently, the staff has been grappling with a range of challenges, including leaky roofs, unreliable internet, frequent blackouts, and even mold. These conditions highlight the critical need for improved resources and infrastructure.
U.K. to Provide Guidance to American A.I. Institutes
After gaining a deep understanding of the current state of A.I. safety efforts in these countries, I have noticed significant communication via calls and emails.
Both parties have also had face-to-face meetings, such as the one that took place in a quiet room during a G7 gathering in Verona. Gina Raimondo, the U.S. Commerce Secretary, and Donelan have led these discussions.
The U.K. actively provides technical advice to the US regarding establishing its institute while working towards a formal cooperation deal with the nation.
