Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida has made a significant commitment to leading the charge in creating global regulations to govern the ethical and proper utilization of generative artificial intelligence technology. This initiative involves partnering with other nations that share similar values and concerns in an effort to establish a framework that ensures the safe and responsible use of AI on a global scale. Kishida highlighted the launch of the Hiroshima AI Process Friends Group, which originated from discussions at the Group of Seven summit hosted in his home constituency, expressing gratitude for the collaboration among countries in tackling concerns regarding the misuse of AI tools that could potentially lead to threats against democracy and political stability.
As part of his broader agenda, Kishida discussed the necessity of collaborating with OECD members to address pressing global issues such as climate change and economic matters like free and fair trade. With Japan assuming the chairmanship of the OECD in 2024, Kishida stressed the importance of working together to achieve secure and trustworthy AI while also focusing on decarbonization efforts through initiatives like the Inclusive Forum on Carbon Mitigation Approaches. Additionally, Kishida underscored the significance of maintaining a rules-based economic order with transparency and fairness, implicitly referencing the need to address concerns related to economic coercion and nonmarket policies in light of global economic challenges, including those posed by China.
Furthermore, Kishida expressed a commitment to expanding the membership of the OECD to include economies from regions such as Latin America, Central and Eastern Europe, and Southeast Asia, aiming to enhance global cooperation and representation within the organization. His visit to Paris marked the beginning of a six-day international tour that would also take him to Brazil and Paraguay during Japan's Golden Week holiday period, demonstrating Japan's active engagement in diplomatic relations and global affairs beyond its borders.