Andy Burnham, the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, announced at a meeting with business leaders in New York that an international agreement on artificial intelligence led by the UK aims to create "a single set of global principles and standards."
Focus on Artificial Intelligence at the G20 Summit
Burnham stated at this meeting that artificial intelligence will be the "main focus" of the UK's presidency at the G20 summit. These remarks come as discussions on global governance of artificial intelligence have become a significant part of the diplomatic agenda. Burnham also told reporters on his way to the United Nations General Assembly that the UK can act as a "credible intermediary" for a global agreement on how to address this technology.
The UK's Role in Shaping Artificial Intelligence
These comments from Burnham followed a speech by former U.S. President Donald Trump, who firmly stated that the United States completely rejects any efforts to create a global framework for controlling artificial intelligence. Burnham expressed: "We want to gather the initiatives that are beginning to emerge, develop them, and turn them into a single set of global principles and standards that seriously help unlock the full potential while protecting against risks."
Burnham also emphasized that a global standard set could also benefit the UK in terms of investment. He referred to artificial intelligence as "a foundational technology" and stated that the UK seeks to "shape it, collaborate with it, and ensure that this artificial intelligence is for the public good," while understanding its challenges and risks.
Given the increasing importance of artificial intelligence on the global stage, the G20 summit provides a suitable opportunity for various countries to discuss and exchange views on how to manage and optimize the use of this technology. As the representative of the UK, Burnham can play a significant role in guiding these discussions and establishing international agreements.
