UK and France to deepen research and AI links following Horizon association

The ministers are set to fortify the already strong connections between British and French scientists, researchers, and businesses. Historically, these collaborations have led to groundbreaking innovations such as the Concorde and the Channel Tunnel. A joint declaration to further strengthen UK-French research ties includes a commitment of £800,000 towards joint research projects already underway, such as those under Horizon Europe. This funding is expected to encourage more joint UK-France bids for grants, supporting advanced R&D that has the potential to improve global living standards. Previously, such collaborations have advanced research into potential HIV-AIDS vaccines.

Additionally, a landmark partnership has been announced between the UK AI Safety Institute and France’s National Institute for Research in Digital Science and Technology (Inria) to promote the safe and responsible development of AI technologies. This announcement precedes France's hosting of the next AI Safety Summit, aiming to build upon the historic agreement on AI testing reached at the UK's inaugural Summit last year.

The establishment of the French-British Joint Committee on Science, Technology, and Innovation marks a significant step towards collaborative research and development across the Channel. The committee, meeting for the first time today, aims to explore shared opportunities in fields such as low-carbon hydrogen, space observation, AI, and research security, meeting biennially to enhance scientific cooperation in emerging technologies.

UK Secretary of State Michelle Donelan remarked on the depth of the UK-France research partnership, highlighting its importance in fostering innovation to create jobs and grow businesses. The collaboration, especially in AI safety, is viewed as a critical component of the UK's ambition to become a scientific superpower.

French Minister Sylvie Retailleau emphasized the international aspect of research and the joint committee's role in identifying collaborative priorities and facilitating the exchange of ideas through funding. Retailleau sees the partnership as an opportunity to bolster France's scientific presence abroad and contribute to Europe's strategic autonomy.

The UK-France joint declaration aims to amplify UK researchers' opportunities for collaboration with French counterparts through Horizon Europe, the world's largest research collaboration programme. This initiative also underscores the potential for European firms and researchers to work with UK companies eligible for Horizon Europe grants.

The agreement extends to collaborative efforts in space, hydrogen, and research security, positioning France as a key partner for UK researchers due to its proximity and leadership in science and technology. Past collaborations between the two countries have led to significant achievements, and the partnership is set to continue advancing science and research in areas like the MicroCarb joint satellite project and participation in CERN.

This partnership is part of a series of bilateral science deals the UK has recently signed, demonstrating its global ambition to deepen scientific collaboration worldwide. The government is committed to providing British researchers with the broadest range of opportunities to achieve breakthroughs in collaboration with international colleagues.