External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar stated on Saturday (local time) that every country has the right to independently form its own artificial intelligence ecosystem. This is achieved by developing its own models and defining implementation strategies that align with national goals and priorities.
Speaking at the 81st United Nations General Assembly (UN), Jaishankar emphasized that India views AI as an important component of its partnership agenda with the Global South. He noted that artificial intelligence is a transformative force for human empowerment, ensuring economic prosperity, and solving population-related issues, while stressing the need for technological democratization and cultural understanding.
During his speech, he mentioned that India held an AI Impact Summit in February, gathering leading experts on the topic. Jaishankar added that he believes in the right of every nation to define its own ecosystem, creating its own models and deployment strategies consistent with its national objectives, and that AI will become an integral part of the partnership with the Global South.
Furthermore, Jaishankar highlighted the importance of mutual respect as technologies become more accessible, asserting that considering the interests and viewpoints of others strengthens the chances for peace. He also emphasized the role of culture and heritage in promoting international understanding in a globalized world, stating that economic and political redistribution is already taking place, and now cultural redistribution needs to be promoted.
He warned about the challenges facing the Global South, including crises in food, fuel, fertilizer, and finance. At the same time, he cautioned that the misuse of artificial intelligence creates new concerns and undermines mutual respect. Jaishankar noted that the situation of the Global South is particularly acute as it faces a '4F crisis'—a crisis of food, fuel, fertilizer, and financial security.
He added that the combined impact of 'Super El Niño,' fertilizer shortages, and grain movement obstacles is causing alarm. Moreover, progress toward achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) is under increasing pressure. The Global South's right to industrialization is also weakened by non-market practices and market withdrawal. Technological progress, which should have instilled hope, has become a source of concern as AI misuse amplifies bias and erodes mutual respect, negatively affecting the goals of the United Nations.