The US and the UK have declined to sign a declaration on “inclusive and sustainable” artificial intelligence at a major summit in Paris, raising concerns about a unified global approach to AI development and regulation. The statement, supported by 60 other nations, including France, China, India, Japan, Australia, and Canada, emphasizes making AI ethical, safe, and sustainable for society and the environment. However, the absence of two key players casts doubt on whether a truly international consensus can be reached.
The UK government explained that while they agreed with much of the declaration, they felt it lacked clarity on global AI governance and did not adequately address national security concerns. Instead, they signed separate agreements on AI sustainability and cybersecurity. Their decision comes amid growing geopolitical tensions, with AI at the center of global competition.
Adding to the friction, US Vice President JD Vance took the stage at the summit, making clear his concerns about Europe’s stringent AI regulations. He warned that excessive oversight could stifle innovation and criticized the European Union’s regulatory approach. He argued that AI policies should encourage technological advancement rather than restrict it. His remarks reflected broader US unease over working with China, cautioning against partnerships with authoritarian regimes and warning that relying on certain foreign technologies could compromise national security.
The UK’s refusal to sign the declaration raised speculation that they were aligning with the US stance. However, officials dismissed suggestions that the decision was about pleasing Washington. Some within the UK government acknowledged that their position leaves them in a delicate spot, as major US AI firms could disengage with the UK’s AI Safety Institute if they perceive regulations as too restrictive.
Critics argue that the UK’s decision could harm its reputation as a leader in ethical AI development. Advocacy groups stress the importance of government action to protect against AI-driven misinformation and maintain credibility in shaping global AI standards. Meanwhile, AI researchers worry that rejecting international governance discussions could isolate the UK from broader efforts to ensure AI benefits everyone.
The summit wrapped up with speculation that more countries might join the declaration later. However, the divide between regulatory approaches—Europe’s cautious stance versus the US preference for minimal oversight—remains a major obstacle. With AI shaping the future of industries, security, and global relations, finding common ground on how to govern it effectively is proving to be a tough challenge.