Saudi Arabia helps shape vision for ethical, open AI at Kyoto forum

In Kyoto, Saudi Arabia's delegation met with global research leaders at the Science and Technology in Society (STS) forum, discussing the role of artificial intelligence in science. Over 30 international research organizations participated in the dialogue.

Saudi Arabia's presence was led by Dr. Munir bin Mahmoud Al-Desouki, President of King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology (KACST) and Acting Governor of the Research, Development and Innovation Authority. KACST's growing role in international scientific discussions was highlighted by the Kingdom's active involvement.

The forum's session, titled "Integrity and Openness of Artificial Intelligence," explored how AI could accelerate scientific discovery while tackling challenges such as data sovereignty, access to computing power, and model openness. Researchers emphasized the need for a scientific ecosystem that balances AI's benefits with the maintenance of integrity and openness in research.

The leaders issued a joint statement stressing the importance of using AI responsibly to ensure fair access to cutting-edge scientific tools. They sought to strike a balance between data sovereignty and open AI models while expanding access to advanced research infrastructure to reduce gaps between institutions.

The leaders also addressed AI's potential impact on the nature of scientific discovery, the necessity of fair recognition for researchers' contributions, and the critical role of humans in creative processes, framing AI as an enhancement tool for scientists rather than a replacement. Saudi Arabia's active role in this international conversation underscores its increasing influence in shaping the future of science and technology.