Tripartite Agreement of Saudi Government, UNESCO and ICAIRE Boosts Interest of the Wise Leadership in Regulating AI Ethics Globally

General

Riyadh: The International Center for AI Research and Ethics (ICAIRE) is one of the significant efforts exerted by the Saudi Data and Artificial Intelligence Authority (SDAIA) in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. This initiative reflects the leadership’s interest in the ethics of artificial intelligence (AI) and its benefits for humanity in light of the growing influence of these technologies in our contemporary world. An international regulatory framework governing these technology systems is required.

In this regard, the cabinet today authorized His Royal Highness, the chairman of the board of the Saudi Data and Artificial Intelligence Authority (SDAIA)-or his deputy-to discuss the tripartite agreement project with the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO). This agreement involves the Government of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the International Center for Artificial Intelligence Research and Ethics, and UNESCO, concerning the classification of the center as a Category II insti
tution under UNESCO’s auspices. The authorized person will also sign the agreement on behalf of the Government of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Additionally, the cabinet authorized the SDAIA chairman-or his deputy-to discuss and sign the aforementioned agreement project on behalf of ICAIRE.

As a result of the consistent support of HRH Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince, Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, and Chairman of the Board of Directors of SDAIA, initiatives have been implemented to increase awareness of AI technology. In order to achieve the goals of Saudi Vision 2030, which aims to establish a society that is centred on knowledge and achieve digital transformation, efforts are being made to promote research, development, and consultation in the field of artificial intelligence (AI). Included in this are the enhancement of the nation’s capabilities in this field and the raising of awareness about ethical considerations related to AI.

The Kingdom is a pioneer in
the AI field. The cabinet approved the establishment of ICAIRE in Riyadh last July, granting it legal personality and financial and administrative independence. On November 16, the 42nd session of the General Conference of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) approved granting ICAIRE the status of a Category 2 Center under UNESCO’s auspices. This recognition was supported by SDAIA’s efforts in cooperation with the Saudi National Commission for Education, Culture, and Science.

ICAIRE highlights four main pillars: providing support for research and development in the field of AI, enhancing awareness and communication regarding AI ethics, offering recommendations related to AI policies, and building AI capabilities. Additionally, it contributes to global efforts that serve humanity in the AI field.

Source: Saudi Press Agency