The US and the UK have joined forces to address the critical issue of AI safety. The partnership, announced through a Memorandum of Understanding, aims to foster collaboration on research, safety evaluations and guidance for AI systems.
Signed by US commerce secretary Gina Raimondo and UK technology secretary Michelle Donelan, the agreement reportedly marks a significant step towards aligning scientific approaches between the two nations. The collaboration is set to expedite the development of comprehensive evaluations for AI models, systems and agents, ensuring they meet rigorous safety standards.
The US and UK AI Safety Institutes will work in tandem to establish a unified approach to AI safety testing. Plans include sharing capabilities, conducting joint testing exercises and facilitating personnel exchanges between the institutes. This synergy aims to enhance understanding of AI systems and enable the issuance of robust guidance to mitigate potential risks.
Secretary Raimondo emphasised the urgency of addressing AI-related concerns. She stated: “AI is the defining technology of our generation. This partnership is going to accelerate both of our Institutes’ work across the full spectrum of risks, whether to our national security or to our broader society.”
Echoing this sentiment, secretary Donelan highlighted the global significance of AI safety, emphasising the need for international collaboration. “Only by working together can we address the technology’s risks head on and harness its enormous potential to help us all live easier and healthier lives,” she stated.
In a press release from the Office of Public Affairs it highlighted that the alliance reflects the commitment of both countries to promote AI safety on a global scale. By sharing vital information and technical research, the US and UK aims to establish a common scientific foundation for AI safety testing. This collaborative effort will reportedly facilitate ongoing dialogue and cooperation among researchers worldwide.
