Saudi Minister of Culture, Prince Badr Bin Farhan, announced the establishment of the International Center of Artificial Intelligence Research and Ethics in Riyadh during the 42nd session of UNESCO’s General Conference in Paris. This center is dedicated to advancing competencies and legislative frameworks in the field.
Prince Badr Bin Farhan, the Saudi Minister of Culture, made a significant announcement during the 42nd session of UNESCO‘s General Conference in Paris. He declared the establishment of the International Center of Artificial Intelligence Research and Ethics in Riyadh. This center is envisioned as a hub for advancing competencies and legislative frameworks related to artificial intelligence.
Denouncement of attacks on Gaza
In his speech at the conference, Prince Badr Bin Farhan strongly condemned the “unjustifiable” attacks on civilians and public facilities in Gaza. He expressed his concern over the continuous assaults on schools, hospitals, and cultural properties, emphasizing that such actions are in violation of international norms and laws. The minister’s statement underscored Saudi Arabia’s commitment to upholding the principles outlined in UNESCO’s founding charter, which advocates for international understanding to prevent crimes, genocides, racism, and wars.
Prince Badr Bin Farhan called for intensified global efforts to protect civilian rights and contribute to global peace and stability. As the chairman of the Saudi National Commission for Education, Culture, and Science, he highlighted the importance of the education, culture, and science sector in Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, which has received significant support from the country’s leadership. Saudi Arabia has leveraged its capabilities to align with global efforts in promoting education, culture, and science.
Achievements within UNESCO
Prince Badr Bin Farhan expressed Saudi Arabia’s pride in its achievements within UNESCO over the past two years. He credited the effective contribution of the organization and its member states in fostering international cooperation. One notable area of focus has been the cultural sector, with Saudi Arabia launching six pioneering projects through the Cultural Development Fund that have had a global impact on cultural heritage.
The minister commended the fruitful partnership between Saudi Arabia and UNESCO, highlighting the inscription of 42 new world heritage sites during the hosting of the 45th session of the World Heritage Committee. This partnership has extended to collaborative initiatives such as the Islamic World Cultural Index Project in conjunction with ICESCO.
Prince Badr Bin Farhan praised Saudi Arabia’s progress in digital competitiveness, achieving first place in the 2023 international government strategy indicator for AI and second place at the G20 level. These achievements reflect the Kingdom’s commitment to enhancing its digital capabilities, which are vital for its future development.
Global peace and inter-cultural dialogue
Prince Badr Bin Farhan expressed his gratitude for UNESCO’s efforts and those of member states in promoting world peace, fostering intercultural dialogue, and launching development, cultural, and scientific initiatives aimed at realizing Sustainable Goals. The establishment of the International Center of Artificial Intelligence Research and Ethics in Riyadh underscores Saudi
Arabia’s commitment to advancing technology while also emphasizing the importance of global peace and cultural preservation.
This initiative aligns with the broader goals of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 and its dedication to contributing to international cooperation and understanding.
With the establishment of this new center, Saudi Arabia is poised to play a significant role in shaping the future of artificial intelligence research and ethical considerations. Additionally, the Kingdom’s continued partnership with UNESCO reaffirms its commitment to preserving cultural heritage and promoting global peace and stability. As Saudi Arabia continues to make strides in the fields of education, culture, and science, it remains a key player on the international stage, working towards a more inclusive and harmonious world.
