11-10-2024 (VIENTIANE) In a groundbreaking move, the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and the United States have jointly issued their first-ever leaders’ statement on artificial intelligence (AI), marking a significant step towards fostering the development of safe and reliable AI technologies across the region.
The statement, entitled “Promoting Safe, Reliable, and Trustworthy Artificial Intelligence”, was unveiled during the ASEAN-US Summit on Friday. This pioneering declaration represents the first instance of ASEAN collaborating with a dialogue partner to address the burgeoning field of AI.
Singapore’s Prime Minister and Finance Minister, Lawrence Wong, hailed the agreement as a catalyst for promoting secure and trustworthy AI development within Southeast Asia. Speaking at the summit in Vientiane, Laos, Prime Minister Wong expressed optimism about US support for the Responsible AI Roadmap, emphasising its potential to drive regional progress in this critical technological domain.
The joint statement outlines plans for enhanced cooperation in AI, encompassing capacity building initiatives and the voluntary exchange of relevant knowledge and technology under mutually agreed terms. Notably, the United States has committed to working alongside ASEAN digital ministers to develop a comprehensive ASEAN responsible AI roadmap, complete with implementation measures.
Prime Minister Wong underscored the importance of the US-ASEAN relationship, describing it as a “solid and important foundation” for ASEAN’s continued growth. He urged both parties to “build on the strong momentum and cooperate in emerging and mutually beneficial areas,” highlighting the potential for collaboration beyond traditional sectors.
