28 countries have reached a ‘world-first’ agreement outlining a shared understanding of the opportunities and risks of AI.

The agreement, made at Bletchley Park during the UK government’s AI Safety Summit, has gained support from the US, China and EU member states.

Other countries endorsing the 'The Bletchley Declaration on AI' include Brazil, France, India, Ireland, Japan, Kenya, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Nigeria and the United Arab Emirates.

The government said that the agreement fulfils key summit objectives in establishing shared agreement and responsibility on the risks, opportunities and a forward process for international collaboration on frontier AI safety and research, particularly through greater scientific collaboration.

The countries backing Declaration agreed that substantial risks may arise from potential intentional misuse or unintended issues of control of frontier AI, with particular concern caused by cybersecurity, biotechnology and disinformation risks.

It also sets out an agreement that there is “potential for serious, even catastrophic, harm, either deliberate or unintentional, stemming from the most significant capabilities of these AI models."

Countries also noted the risks beyond frontier AI, including bias and privacy.

"This is a landmark achievement that sees the world’s greatest AI powers agree on the urgency behind understanding the risks of AI – helping ensure the long-term future of our children and grandchildren," said prime minister Rishi Sunak. "Under the UK’s leadership, more than 25 countries at the AI Safety Summit have stated a shared responsibility to address AI risks and take forward vital international collaboration on frontier AI safety and research."

The AI Safety Summit is taking place on 1 and 2 November at Bletchley Park.

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