Good evening, this is James Parker reporting live from the G7 summit in Puglia, Italy. Pope Francis, the 87-year-old pontiff, is set to make history by becoming the first pope to participate in the summit of leaders from the world’s most advanced economies. On Friday, he will take part in a session dedicated to artificial intelligence (AI), a topic that the pope believes holds both exciting opportunities and grave risks for humanity.
Francis, who trained as a chemist in his youth, has been a vocal advocate for the ethical development and use of AI. He has warned against the potential emergence of a “technological dictatorship” and highlighted the dangers of AI-controlled weapons systems and misuse of technology for surveillance and election interference.
The Vatican’s efforts to promote ethical guidelines for AI have gained support from major tech companies such as Microsoft, IBM, and Cisco Systems, as well as international organizations like the United Nations. The Pontifical Academy for Life has been instrumental in pushing for a framework that ensures AI serves the “common good” and does not exacerbate inequalities.
At the G7 summit, Pope Francis is expected to urge world leaders to work together on the regulation of AI, echoing his previous calls for a “binding international treaty” to prevent harmful practices. European Union lawmakers have already passed legislation regulating AI, and a bipartisan group of US senators have outlined plans for federal legislation on the issue.
Archbishop Vincenzo Paglia, president of the Pontifical Academy for Life, emphasized the importance of international regulation to prevent abuse and manipulation of new technology. Italy’s prime minister, Giorgia Meloni, expressed her belief that the pope’s presence at the summit will contribute to the development of an ethical and cultural regulatory framework for AI.
Francis’ decision to attend the G7 summit underscores his commitment to engaging with the world on issues of global importance. His presence at the summit is seen as a significant moment in the ongoing debate about the ethical implications of AI and emerging technologies.
We will continue to bring you updates from the G7 summit as Pope Francis joins world leaders in discussing the future of AI and its impact on society. Thank you for tuning in, this is James Parker reporting live from Puglia, Italy.
