Over 60 Nations Endorse Action Plan for Military AI, China Abstains

Around 60 countries, including the U.S., endorsed a non-binding 'blueprint for action' to govern AI use in the military during the REAIM summit in Seoul. China did not support the document, highlighting global divisions. The blueprint emphasizes risk assessments, human control, and preventing AI proliferation of WMDs.

Over 60 countries, including the United States, endorsed a non-binding 'blueprint for action' governing the responsible use of artificial intelligence (AI) in the military during the REAIM summit in Seoul. Notably, China abstained from supporting the document, illustrating a significant divergence in global perspectives.

The summit, co-hosted by the Netherlands, Singapore, Kenya, and the United Kingdom, builds on last year's modest 'call to action' in Amsterdam. This year's blueprint is more action-focused, addressing advancements like AI-enabled drones in Ukraine and outlining crucial risk assessments and human oversight measures.

Among its recommendations, the blueprint stresses preventing the use of AI to proliferate weapons of mass destruction and ensuring human involvement in nuclear weapons deployment. Despite global participation, the lack of universal endorsement remains a challenge, as noted by Netherlands Defence Minister Ruben Brekelmans.

(With inputs from agencies.)