UK and India Must Shape AI Together, Says Minister Kanishka Narayan

United Kingdom AI Minister Kanishka Narayan has emphasized the growing importance of collaboration between India and the UK in shaping the future of artificial intelligence. In a recent discussion, he highlighted how the two democracies can work together to build technology frameworks rooted in shared values, ethical standards, and public interest.

Narayan stressed that cooperation between India and the UK has the potential to influence how AI develops globally. He noted that both nations bring strong democratic traditions and technological expertise, allowing them to guide innovation in ways that prioritize human welfare and responsible use.

Shared Values Can Guide Global AI Development

According to Narayan, AI development should not be driven solely by technological dominance or economic competition. Instead, it must reflect societal values and ethical considerations. He said that the combined influence of India and the UK can help shape AI systems aligned with principles of fairness, transparency, and accountability.

He underlined that the partnership can ensure that technological progress is guided by what is right and beneficial for society rather than purely commercial interests.

Strategic Cooperation Over Technological Isolation

Narayan advocated for what he described as “strategic leverage” rather than technological isolation. He argued that interdependence among like-minded democratic nations will define the future of global AI ecosystems.

This approach, he explained, allows countries to share expertise, develop common regulatory frameworks, and build interoperable AI systems that support innovation while protecting citizens.

Online Safety and Responsible AI Regulation

Addressing concerns around AI misuse, Narayan pointed to recent joint action against explicit AI-generated content on digital platforms as an example of effective regulatory coordination. He said such cooperation demonstrates how governments can respond quickly to emerging risks while safeguarding public safety.

He emphasized the need for proactive policies to manage harmful content, misinformation, and unsafe applications of generative AI technologies.

Innovation Chapter in India-UK Trade Pact

Narayan also highlighted the innovation chapter included in the India-UK Free Trade Agreement, calling it a major step toward deeper technological cooperation. The agreement is expected to support:

• Joint research centres

• Bilateral research and development projects

• Academic and industry collaboration

• Technology transfer and innovation ecosystems

These initiatives aim to accelerate AI research and strengthen the digital economies of both countries.

A Partnership for the Future of AI

As artificial intelligence becomes central to global economic growth and governance, Narayan stressed that India and the UK are well positioned to lead responsible innovation efforts. By aligning policy, research, and ethical frameworks, both nations can shape AI systems that benefit society while addressing emerging risks.

The growing partnership signals a broader shift toward collaborative governance of emerging technologies, where shared values and cooperative regulation will play a defining role in the future of AI.