U.S. State Department Convenes First Meeting of AI Agreement Signatories on Military Application

This week, the U.S. State Department is hosting the inaugural meeting of signatories to an artificial intelligence (AI) agreement, with a primary focus on military applications. The meeting marks a significant step in international discussions concerning the ethical use of AI in military contexts. According to Mark Montgomery, senior director of the Center on Cyber and Technology Innovation for the Foundation for the Defense of Democracies, the initiative is commendable, although he emphasizes that it primarily entails information sharing rather than policymaking.

Notably, the gathering includes 42 of the 53 nations that signed the Political Declaration on Responsible Military Use of Artificial Intelligence and Autonomy last year. Despite the absence of key nations like China, Russia, and others, over 100 participants from diplomatic and military backgrounds will engage in discussions covering various military applications of AI.

The State Department's objective for this week’s conference is to establish a platform for continuous dialogue among signatories, intending to address emerging developments in AI applications in subsequent meetings. The department encourages signatories to convene independently between meetings to exchange ideas, conduct war games, or undertake initiatives aimed at advancing the declaration’s objectives. The breadth and depth of support for the Political Declaration have been positively received by State Department officials, who stress the importance of diverse perspectives and experiences in shaping AI policies.

Amidst discussions on AI applications, the focus remains primarily on its implications for warfare and international security. Bonnie Jenkins, the undersecretary of state for Arms Control and International Security Affairs, highlighted the Biden administration’s commitment to promoting the safe, secure, and trustworthy development and use of AI. While acknowledging the potential benefits of AI in various sectors, Jenkins also emphasized the risks associated with its unregulated use. Without appropriate safeguards, AI has the potential to exacerbate threats, intensify conflicts, and disrupt global security dynamics. Jenkins underscored the importance of proactive measures to implement policies and build technical capacities to ensure responsible development and utilization of AI technologies, regardless of future advancements.