London: On the sidelines of the state visit of HH the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani to the United Kingdom, Qatar and the UK have launched a joint Artificial Intelligence (AI) research commission. This initiative aims to establish a road map for collaboration on AI, benefiting both countries. According to Qatar News Agency, the joint study will be spearheaded by Queen Mary University of London (QMUL) in partnership with Hamad Bin Khalifa University (HBKU) in Qatar. Leading the study is Professor David Leslie, a specialist in Ethics, Technology, and Society at QMUL's Digital Environment Research Institute, who also serves as the Director of Ethics and Responsible Innovation Research at the Alan Turing Institute. The project is designed to build on the existing progress in AI made by both nations. It seeks to explore practical and ambitious ways to enhance cooperation in ecosystem development, policy and regulation, security, and international engagement. The collaboration is facilitated by Qatar's Mini stry of Foreign Affairs, the AI Committee of the Qatar Ministry of Communications and Information Technology (MCIT), Qatar Research, Development and Innovation Council (QRDI), and the British Embassy in Doha. Funding is provided by the Gulf Strategy Fund, under the UK Foreign, Commonwealth, and Development Office's international program. HE British Ambassador to Qatar Neerav Patel emphasized the UK and Qatar's innovative policies related to AI, particularly the importance of building a robust ethical and governance framework. Several prominent British and Qatari institutions are participating in this initiative, reflecting a shared commitment to addressing global challenges. HE Dr. Mariam Khalid Al Hamar from Qatar's Ministry of Foreign Affairs highlighted the initiative as an opportunity to advance innovation through collaboration. She noted Qatar's role as a global leader in dialogue and mediation, recognizing the importance of cooperation in diplomacy and conflict resolution. The initiative aims to lever age AI's potential to improve decision-making and address complex global issues. Eman Al Kuwari, Director of Digital Innovation at Qatar's MCIT, remarked on the significance of this collaboration in advancing AI as a force for good. The partnership with the UK and the expertise of globally renowned institutions are expected to open new avenues for innovation and contribute to global progress in AI. Professor David Leslie underscored the pivotal moment in AI history, emphasizing the opportunity for the UK and Qatar to collaborate in harnessing AI's transformative potential for public good while addressing emerging risks. Eng. Omar Al Ansari, Secretary General of QRDI Council, stated that the initiative represents a strategic opportunity to advance innovation through collaboration. The partnership aims to leverage investments by both countries in AI research, fostering expertise exchange and achieving impactful results. Professor Colin Bailey, President and Principal of QMUL, praised the collaboration with HBKU, highlighting the potential to combine knowledge and strengths for the optimal use of AI technology. He noted QMUL's history of successful international collaborations and leadership in emerging research and technology.