US and EU to Seek Positive Impact AI

The EU and the US have pledged to collaborate on research towards the use of AI to address major global challenges. The European Commission explained the Administrative Arrangement on Artificial Intelligence for the Public Good was designed to help tackle challenges related to healthcare, climate change, mitigating the impact of natural disasters, energy and agriculture.

AI is expected by the partners to play a role in areas including predicting extreme weather and natural disasters, alongside aiding crop yields by modeling soil and atmospheric conditions, and bird and insect trends. The EC noted findings and resources would be shared with international partners that share common values but lack relevant capabilities to help them manage such emergencies and challenges. “Based on common values and interests, EU and US researchers will join forces to develop societal applications of AI and will work with other international partners for a truly global impact,“ said EC Commissioner for Internal Market Thierry Breton.

The US national security adviser Jake Sullivan noted the collaboration will drive responsible advancements in AI to address major global challenges with a joint development model and integrated research to deliver benefits to society. The partnership is the latest between the two regions focused on advanced technologies and trade. EU member states were also part of a slew of countries to sign the Declaration for the Future of the Internet pledge with the US, outlining a global vision of the future of the internet and related technologies.