World Leaders Agree to Launch Network of Safety Institutes
The international network was agreed during the AI Safety Summit in Seoul, South Korea, during which world leaders met virtually. South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol co-chaired the AI Seoul Summit via videoconferencing with British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and adopted the Seoul Declaration to stress the safety, innovation, and inclusivity of artificial intelligence (AI) on May 21, 2024.
Global Cooperation on AI Safety
The Leaders from countries signed up to the wider Seoul Declaration during this conference, which declares the importance of “enhanced international cooperation” to develop human-centric, trustworthy AI. It will bring together scientists from publicly-backed institutions, like the UK’s AI Safety Institute, to share information about AI models' risks, capabilities, and limitations.
President Yoon's Proposal
President Yoon proposed the three principle values of AI, stating, “The Republic of Korea will push forward with the establishment of an AI safety research center in Korea and join a network to boost the global safety of AI.” He further added, “I’m very pleased to host the AI Seoul Summit, which will expand the scope of discussion to innovation and inclusivity, after the inaugural summit at Bletchley Park of the U.K. in November last year discussed AI safety.”
Yoon emphasized the importance of consolidating efforts and promoting AI standards and governance at the global level to secure AI safety and prevent any negative effects AI might have on democracy.
Global Impact and Innovation
Key countries such as the U.K. and U.S. are working towards launching AI safety think tanks. This innovation in AI will provide new growth momentum for the global economy and assist in resolving global challenges like environmental pollution. It is essential to ensure AI's inclusivity so that everyone, regardless of residence or income, can benefit from AI.
Statements from World Leaders
UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak expressed, “AI is a hugely exciting technology, but to get the upside, we must ensure it’s safe,” and announced, “That’s why I’m delighted we have got an agreement today for a network of AI Safety Institutes.”
Ursula von der Leyen, president of the European Commission, highlighted the global collaboration needed for AI and the importance of cooperating with similar entities around the world.
Global Commitments and Cooperation
At the AI Safety Summit, leaders from various countries adopted the Seoul Declaration and its annex, Seoul Statement of Intent toward International Cooperation on AI Safety Science. The participating world leaders affirm their dedication to fostering international cooperation and dialogue on artificial intelligence.
Future Endeavors
The Seoul declaration emphasized the importance of international cooperation on AI safety science and the promotion of dialogue and best practices among organizations. The participating leaders look forward to the upcoming AI Action Summit in France as a platform to advance discussions on AI governance that facilitate AI safety, innovation, and inclusivity.
