GAIN Summit Explores Global Strategies For Ethical AI Governance And Cooperation

The third Global Artificial Intelligence Summit (GAIN Summit), organised by the Saudi Data and AI Authority (SDAIA), commenced on Tuesday in Riyadh. The event brought together ministers responsible for technology and communications sectors, who shared their countries' experiences in implementing regulations to maximise AI benefits. Discussions centred on using AI to support development programs and improve social life quality.

South African Minister of Science and Technology and Innovation Dr. Bonginkosi Nzimande praised the summit's role in fostering international coordination. He stated, "This coordination will help developing countries keep up with and compete against technologically advanced countries through genuine international cooperation." Dr. Nzimande highlighted AI's potential to contribute significantly to the renaissance of nations and humanity.

Gabonese Republic Minister of Communication and Media Laurence Ndong underscored her country's commitment to working with UNESCO to develop policies for governing AI technologies. She stressed the importance of addressing challenges posed by these technologies to ensure they benefit Gabon's infrastructure and national development. Ndong also called for international cooperation to ensure AI serves humanity as a whole.

Cambodia Ministry of Post and Telecommunications Secretary of State Makara Khov highlighted Cambodia's efforts to mitigate AI risks through regulations. He noted that these measures have enabled Cambodia to harness essential technologies like AI while addressing potential threats. Khov emphasised the need for continued vigilance in managing AI's impact on government institutions and society.

Kingdom of Bahrain Information and eGovernment Authority Chief Executive Mohammed Ali Al-Qaed discussed how leading countries implement value-based principles in AI use. He mentioned that Bahrain is following a similar path, continuously updating legislation to keep pace with advancements in this field. Al-Qaed stressed the importance of preserving ethics and culture while embracing technological progress.

AI's Role in Education, Health, and Innovation

Sultanate of Oman Ministry of Communications and Information Technology Undersecretary Dr. Ali Al-Shidhani shared Oman's success in using technologies to develop human resources across various fields, including education and health sectors. He echoed other officials' sentiments about the importance of leveraging technology for national development while managing associated risks.

Republic of Senegal Director of Information and Communication Technology Aissatou Jeanne Ndiaye confirmed that Senegal has utilised AI technologies to support education and scientific research. She noted that measures have been implemented to address potential risks, ensuring that these technologies are used safely and effectively.

Addressing Risks at Social and Geopolitical Levels

German Federal Ministry of Digital and Transport State Secretary Stefan Schnorr emphasised the need for collaborative efforts between countries to neutralise technology-related dangers, especially those posed by AI. He called for innovation promotion while addressing social and geopolitical risks associated with technological advancements.

Republic of Serbia Ministry of Science, Technological Development, and Innovation State Secretary Dr. Miroslav Trajanovic warned about rapid changes in AI technologies. He stressed the necessity for flexible laws that can be updated continually to keep pace with evolving technologies. Dr. Trajanovic highlighted the need for intelligence, professionalism, and optimal mechanisms to address challenges accompanying AI advancements.

The ministers collectively emphasised the importance of implementing regulations to neutralise risks associated with AI technologies while adhering to international ethics. They highlighted the need for global cooperation to ensure that AI benefits all humanity without compromising safety or ethical standards.

With inputs from SPA