UK and US Decline to Sign Global AI Agreement at Paris Summit

The United Kingdom and the United States have opted not to sign an international AI agreement at a global summit in Paris. The agreement, backed by 60 nations — including France, China, and India — sets out principles for ensuring AI development remains “open,” “inclusive,” and “ethical.”

In a statement, the UK government cited concerns over national security and global governance as reasons for withholding its support. Meanwhile, US Vice President JD Vance emphasized the need for AI policies that encourage growth, warning that excessive regulation could stifle innovation.

Diverging AI Strategies

Speaking at the summit, Vance reaffirmed the Trump administration’s commitment to a “pro-growth AI policy,” arguing that overregulation could “kill a transformative industry just as it’s taking off.” He urged European leaders to approach AI with “optimism, rather than trepidation.”

French President Emmanuel Macron took a different stance, defending regulatory oversight as essential for AI’s long-term success. “We need these rules for AI to move forward,” Macron stated.

The UK’s decision not to sign the agreement has raised questions about its commitment to AI safety, particularly given its leadership in hosting the 2023 AI Safety Summit under then-Prime Minister Rishi Sunak.

Andrew Dudfield, head of AI at fact-checking organization Full Fact, warned that rejecting the Paris communique could damage the UK’s credibility in shaping global AI standards. “By refusing to sign today’s international AI Action Statement, the UK Government risks undercutting its hard-won credibility as a world leader for safe, ethical, and trustworthy AI innovation,” Dudfield said.

What the Agreement Covers

The Paris Declaration outlines key priorities for AI governance, including bridging digital divides, enhancing transparency, and ensuring AI systems are “safe, secure, and trustworthy.” Another major focus is sustainability, acknowledging concerns that AI’s energy consumption could soon rival that of small nations.

Despite not endorsing the full declaration, the UK government maintains it supports many of its principles. A spokesperson explained that while the UK agrees with much of the statement, it found certain elements lacking.

“We felt the declaration didn’t provide enough practical clarity on global governance, nor sufficiently address harder questions around national security and the challenge AI poses to it,” the government stated.

Downing Street also insisted its position was independent of the Trump administration. “This isn’t about the US, this is about our own national interest, ensuring the balance between opportunity and security,” a spokesperson added.

Balancing Innovation and Regulation

Discussions at the global AI summit have focused on AI’s impact on society, governance, and the economy. Leaders are weighing how to harness AI’s economic potential while mitigating risks. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen emphasized the importance of innovation and collaboration, stressing the role of open-source AI development.

Meanwhile, trade tensions between the US and Europe are adding further complexity to transatlantic relations. President Trump’s recent decision to impose tariffs on steel and aluminum imports has strained ties, and the UK is working to maintain relationships with both the US and the EU.

As global AI policy continues to evolve, the UK and the US are charting a path that prioritizes economic growth over broader international consensus. Whether this approach will pay off remains to be seen.