India Advocates for National AI Models at UN Amid Global Concerns Over AI Control
India supports the right for nations to develop their own AI models at the UN, amidst global concerns over AI control by a few countries.
United Nations, September 27 (Daily Kiran) : At the United Nations, several countries expressed alarm over the concentration of control over artificial intelligence (AI) technology in the hands of a few nations, governments, or large corporations. India has voiced its support for each country’s right to develop its own AI models.
During his address at the UN General Assembly, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar highlighted that AI could serve as a transformative force, empowering individuals and enhancing economic prosperity. However, he also cautioned against the misuse of AI, noting that it can exacerbate biases and undermine mutual respect among people and nations.
Jaishankar asserted that every country should have the freedom to create AI models tailored to its national priorities and needs. His remarks were part of a broader debate at the UN regarding who should control AI, the regulations governing it, and whether developing nations will have a genuine say in shaping the future of this technology.
Malaysia raised concerns that countries in the Global South should not be relegated to mere locations for data centers and technology facilities while major decisions about AI remain in the hands of foreign governments and corporations. Malaysian Foreign Minister Mohammad Haji Hassan emphasized that these nations should not just be consumers of AI but should also play an equal role in developing new technologies.
He highlighted the significant influence a few private companies have on how billions of people communicate, work, transact, and access information. While acknowledging the vast benefits of AI, he warned of equally serious risks associated with it. Hassan also pointed out the need for attention to the resources required for data centers and technology facilities, arguing that the burden should not fall on developing countries while the primary economic benefits accrue to others.
Germany echoed similar concerns about the concentration of AI ownership, with Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul noting that most AI-related patents are held by companies from just two major countries. He called for shared security regulations for the most powerful and advanced AI models, warning that the rapid advancement of AI technology outpaces the ability of international institutions to establish appropriate regulations.
Belize’s Prime Minister John Briceño remarked that if proper regulations are established, AI could enhance government services and improve information accessibility. Conversely, without appropriate rules, AI could exacerbate inequality, jeopardize essential systems, displace jobs, and leave developing countries dependent on technologies and regulations formulated elsewhere.
Singapore’s Foreign Minister Vivian Balakrishnan described AI as the “most pressing new challenge,” advocating for increased investment in science, infrastructure, and skill development. He stressed the importance of creating safeguards to ensure human oversight of AI technologies.
Saudi Arabia highlighted its initiatives to enhance AI capabilities through a network of international centers and the establishment of an AI research and ethics center in Riyadh. Cameroon also emphasized that advancements in new technologies should benefit all of humanity, linking access to these technologies with calls for reform in the global financial system to provide equal opportunities for developing nations.
The UN adopted a global digital compact in 2024 aimed at fostering cooperation among nations on AI, reducing existing inequalities in the digital realm, and promoting secure, human-centered technology. However, discussions among governments continue regarding how to translate these global principles into concrete, enforceable regulations.
