The UN General Assembly unanimously adopted a landmark resolution promoting "safe, secure, and trustworthy" artificial intelligence systems, which will also contribute to sustainable development for all.

The UN General Assembly adopted a nonbinding resolution proposed by the US and co-sponsored by India and 120 member countries, marking the first time the Assembly has addressed regulating artificial intelligence.

US Vice President Kamala Harris hailed the UN resolution as a "historic step" towards establishing international norms for AI, emphasizing the importance of fostering safe and trustworthy AI systems. The Assembly called on all Member States and stakeholders to refrain from using AI systems that violate human rights or pose undue risks, affirming the need to protect rights both offline and online.

The Assembly urged all states, the private sector, civil society, research organizations, and the media to develop and support regulatory and governance approaches and frameworks concerning the safe, secure, and trustworthy use of AI.

The UNGA also acknowledged the "varying levels" of technological development both between and within countries, recognizing that developing nations encounter unique challenges in keeping pace with rapid innovation.

It called on Member States and stakeholders to cooperate with and support developing countries, enabling them to benefit from inclusive and equitable access, bridge the digital divide, and enhance digital literacy.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, speaking at the 'Startup Mahakumbh' event on March 20, highlighted India's potential in AI technology. He emphasized the importance of seizing the opportunities it presents. Additionally, he mentioned initiatives like the National Quantum Mission and India AI Mission, which will offer new prospects for Indian youth.

PM Modi highlighted India's commitment to AI during his address to the US Congress. He inaugurated the Global Partnership on Artificial Intelligence (GPAI) Summit in December 2023, showcasing India's leadership in the field.

At the Summit, he introduced an AI agriculture chatbot to aid farmers and discussed AI's role in healthcare and Sustainable Development Goals. Minister Rajeev Chandrasekhar emphasized India's approach to AI during the world's first global AI summit in the UK last November, focusing on openness, safety, trust, and accountability.

Chandrasekhar emphasised India's stance on international collaboration during the AI Safety Summit 2023, highlighting the significance of global conversations in the era of unprecedented technological advancements.

Meanwhile, US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan praised the UNGA resolution for providing a comprehensive framework for addressing the opportunities and challenges of AI.

Sullivan stated in a statement released by the White House that the resolution establishes a pathway for international cooperation on AI, aiming to promote equitable access, manage AI risks, protect privacy, prevent misuse, and address bias and discrimination.

Image source: ANI