External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar addressed the 81st United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York, highlighting the significance of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in human empowerment, economic prosperity, and solving population problems. He emphasized the need for technology democratization and cultural understanding. Jaishankar stated that India views AI as a crucial part of its partnership agenda with the Global South.
Jaishankar stressed that every nation has the right to shape its AI ecosystem through the development of its own models and deployment strategies, consistent with national goals and priorities. He mentioned that AI will be a key component of India's partnership agenda with the Global South. The minister also highlighted the importance of mutual respect as technology becomes more accessible, stating that consideration for the interests and viewpoints of others strengthens prospects for peace.
The External Affairs Minister emphasized the role of culture and heritage in promoting international understanding in a globalized world. He stated that economic and political rebalancing is already underway, and cultural rebalancing must now be advanced. Jaishankar also highlighted the challenges faced by the Global South, including food, fuel, fertilizer, and finance crises.
Jaishankar warned that the misuse of AI is creating new concerns and undermining mutual respect. He mentioned that the predicament of the Global South is particularly acute, with a 4F crisis - food, fuel, fertilizer, and finance - and that SDG progress is under increasing pressure. The Global South's right to industrialize is also undermined by non-market practices and market denial.
The minister highlighted India's efforts to address AI-related issues, mentioning that the country hosted the AI Impact Summit in February, gathering together experts to discuss the subject. He reiterated India's commitment to working with the Global South to address the challenges and opportunities presented by AI.
Jaishankar's address at the UNGA also touched on the importance of reformed multilateralism, stating that the march towards a democratic future cannot be halted. He emphasized the need for the international community to work together to address the pressing challenges facing the world.
In his address, Jaishankar also raised concerns over attacks on seafarers, stating that safety must not be compromised. He called for the international community to take forward the third facet of rebalancing - cultural rebalancing - in a globalized world.
Key points
- Every nation has the right to shape its AI ecosystem through development of its own models and deployment strategies consistent with national goals and priorities.
- AI is a transformational driver for human empowerment, economic prosperity, and solving population problems.
- The misuse of AI is creating new concerns and undermining mutual respect.
