Canada and the UK have officially committed to collaborating on artificial intelligence computing by signing two memorandums of understanding. François-Philippe Champagne, Canada’s Minister of Innovation, Science, and Industry, and Michelle Donelan, UK’s Secretary of State for Science, Innovation, and Technology, formalized this partnership. The overarching aim is to address global concerns collectively and promote innovation and research.
The first MOU focuses on science, technology, and innovation for quantum, AI, semiconductors, engineering biology, and clean energy. Both countries aim to intensify efforts in these areas, promoting research and bringing innovative solutions to market.
The second MOU is centered on AI compute, a fundamental component in AI development. It outlines a commitment to exploring ways for secure and affordable access to computing capacity needed for AI systems. The collaboration extends to areas of shared strategic importance, including biomedicine.
Minister Champagne emphasized the positive impact of these agreements, stating, “Today’s memorandums of understanding on scientific research and innovation and on AI compute will lead to positive impacts across all fields of research and innovation, help businesses accelerate commercialization, and link our leading researchers together.” Secretary Donelan highlighted the deepening relationship between the UK and Canada, focusing on addressing technological challenges.
Collaboration Pillars and Focus Areas
Canada and the UK’s MOU specifies three pillars of collaboration: Deep Science and Technology, Commercialization of Innovation, and Science Diplomacy and Governance.
These pillars are designed to enhance cooperation in various areas, from advanced research and development to cross-border business-led research and development.
The focus areas identified for cooperation include life sciences, engineering biology, sustainability and net zero, quantum, AI, semiconductors, and more. These areas reflect the countries’ commitment to fostering innovation and addressing global challenges.
Both nations spoke on the value of worldwide collaboration, recognizing their positions as leaders in complementary research, development, and innovation. The MOU stresses the importance of including under-represented groups and considering the viewpoints of the Global South in research and innovation collaborations.
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Commitment to Sustainable AI Development
The collaboration also highlights a commitment to exploring joint opportunities for sustainable AI development. Recognizing the environmental impacts associated with computing infrastructure, the countries aim to promote increased energy efficiency within computing infrastructure and explore measures to reduce carbon emissions.
The collaboration in AI compute reflects the shared vision of both nations to ensure responsible and secure AI development. By working together, Canada and the UK aim to drive inclusive and sustainable economic growth through advancements in technology.
Enhancing Research and Innovation Cooperation
The MOU in scientific research and innovation will be for the next 10 years.
The three pillars of collaboration—Deep Science and Technology, Commercialization of Innovation, and Science Diplomacy and Governance—provide a framework for joint efforts. The participants aim to encourage cooperation in areas such as advanced research, technology commercialization, and diplomatic exchange on issues related to international standards and governance of new technologies.
The participants express their commitment to inclusive participation, encouraging the involvement of under-represented groups and promoting equitable global partnerships throughout the research and innovation continuum.
Future Collaboration and Monitoring Mechanism
Both countries have established a Joint Science and Technology Cooperation Committee (JSTCC) to monitor and evaluate past and current activities, as well as guide future initiatives. The JSTCC meetings, held biennially in Canada and the UK, involve official representatives of the participants.
While the MOU outlines forms of collaboration and overall themes, it maintains flexibility, allowing for periodic updates and adjustments to emerging priority areas during its ten-year duration. The agreement signifies a joint intent to collaborate, with no financial obligations and no legally binding nature.
