President Cyril Ramaphosa has called for stronger international oversight of artificial intelligence, warning that the technology must not develop faster than humanity’s ability to control it.
Ramaphosa was speaking at the 18th BRICS Leaders’ Summit in New Delhi, India, on Sunday, where he addressed efforts to promote inclusive global growth.
He said AI has the potential to improve medicine, education, agriculture, scientific research and productivity, and could help reduce poverty and inequality if used responsibly.
However, Ramaphosa warned of growing concerns around powerful AI systems, including cyber operations, biological weapons development, mass surveillance, job losses and systems becoming difficult for humans to control.
He said BRICS should establish an international mechanism for the independent scientific evaluation of AI.
The proposed mechanism should include stronger safeguards, reporting of serious AI-related incidents and measures to ensure meaningful human control over the technology.
Ramaphosa also called for greater investment in AI capabilities in developing countries to prevent them from being left behind.
He further urged BRICS countries to strengthen cooperation in healthcare, agriculture, science and technology, while supporting the use of local currencies and stronger cross-border payment systems.
He said BRICS should become more ambitious as it enters its third decade.
