Major economies endorse a shared vision for ethical, transparent and accessible artificial intelligence, while the U.S. and U.K. withhold support over security concerns

As global competition over artificial intelligence intensifies, a coalition of 58 countries has committed to a shared framework for inclusive and sustainable AI development, marking one of the most ambitious multilateral governance efforts in the technology’s history.

At the Global AI Action Summit, European nations joined China, India and a broad group of countries from Africa, Latin America and Southeast Asia in signing a declaration that prioritises ethical, transparent, safe and accessible AI systems, underscoring a growing consensus that artificial intelligence must be guided by common principles rather than unilateral ambition.

The declaration places inclusivity at its core, calling for expanded access to AI infrastructure, stronger digital literacy programs and deeper research collaboration so that developing economies are not left behind as advanced models reshape industries and public services.

Signatories stressed that preventing excessive market concentration is essential to safeguarding innovation and democratic accountability, warning that unchecked dominance by a handful of corporations or states could deepen economic inequalities and distort global competition.

Transparency and accountability form another pillar of the pact, with governments agreeing that AI systems used in critical domains such as healthcare, finance and public administration must be explainable, rigorously tested and subject to clear oversight mechanisms.

The document also addresses algorithmic bias and discrimination, urging developers to adopt safeguards that protect fundamental rights and ensure that automated systems do not reinforce existing social or economic disparities.

Environmental sustainability features prominently in the agreement, reflecting mounting concern over the energy demands of large-scale AI models, as participating nations encourage more efficient computing practices and responsible data centre management to limit carbon footprints.

Despite the broad coalition, the absence of the United States and the United Kingdom cast a shadow over the proceedings, as both governments declined to sign the declaration, citing concerns that the framework did not sufficiently address national security implications and the complexities of their domestic regulatory approaches.

Officials from Washington and London signalled that they remain committed to international dialogue on AI governance but indicated that any formal endorsement must align closely with their strategic priorities and evolving safety regimes.

For many of the countries that did sign, the declaration represents a pragmatic step toward shaping global norms at a time when artificial intelligence is rapidly becoming embedded in economic systems, defence strategies and everyday life.

European representatives described the pact as reinforcing a rules-based digital order, while emerging economies framed it as an opportunity to secure fairer access to technological infrastructure and avoid dependency on a limited number of dominant providers.

Industry analysts note that although the declaration is not legally binding, its collective weight could influence corporate standards and future legislation, particularly for multinational firms seeking stable access to diverse markets.

Civil society organisations welcomed the emphasis on human rights and equitable access but cautioned that the credibility of the initiative will depend on concrete implementation and measurable progress rather than rhetorical commitments.

As artificial intelligence continues to redefine productivity, creativity and governance, the Global AI Action Summit signals that a substantial portion of the international community is prepared to articulate shared values for the technology’s future.

Whether this coalition can bridge remaining geopolitical divides remains uncertain, but the declaration marks a significant moment in the effort to ensure that AI development advances not only economic growth, but also equity, sustainability and collective global stability.