G7 summit underscores ethical AI, digital inclusion, and global solidarity
The leaders stressed the importance of human-centric, ethical AI that respects rights and boosts productivity without disrupting labour markets.
The G7 leaders met with counterparts from several countries, including Algeria, Argentina, Brazil, and India, along with heads of major international organisations such as the African Development Bank and the UN, to address global challenges impacting the Global South. They emphasised the need for a unified and equitable international response to these issues, underscoring solidarity and shared responsibility to ensure inclusive solutions.
Pope Francis made an unprecedented appearance at the summit, contributing valuable insights on AI. The leaders discussed AI’s potential to enhance industrial productivity while cautioning against its possible negative impacts on the labour market and society. They stressed the importance of developing AI that is ethical, transparent, and respects human rights, advocating for AI to improve services while protecting workers.
The leaders highlighted the necessity of bridging digital divides and promoting digital inclusion, supporting Italy’s proposal for an AI Hub for Sustainable Development. The hub aims to strengthen local AI ecosystems and advance AI’s role in sustainable development.
They also emphasised the importance of education, lifelong learning, and international mobility to equip workers with the necessary skills to work with AI. Finally, the leaders committed to fostering cooperation with developing and emerging economies to close digital gaps, including the gender digital divide, and achieve broader digital inclusion.