Kyoto:Saudi Arabia took part in the Global Summit of Research Institute Leaders in Kyoto, Japan, coinciding with the Science and Technology in Society (STS) Forum. Leaders from 33 research institutions worldwide convened to deliberate on the impact of artificial intelligence on scientific research and the future of knowledge production.
According to Saudi Press Agency, Saudi Arabia was represented by Dr. Munir Eldesouki, President of King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology (KACST) and Acting Governor of the Research Development and Innovation Authority. He joined the STS Forum Council, underscoring the Kingdom's expanding role on international scientific and technological platforms.
The summit, themed 'AI Integrity and Openness,' explored AI's potential to accelerate discovery and research alongside challenges like knowledge reliability, computing access, data sovereignty, model openness, and intellectual property protection.
A joint statement was issued by the research institution leaders, highlighting the necessity of a scientific ecosystem that leverages AI's capabilities while maintaining research integrity and openness. It called for enhanced international cooperation to ensure equitable access to scientific tools.
The statement also discussed balancing data sovereignty with AI model openness amid increased reliance on data and computing in research. It emphasized the need to expand access to advanced research infrastructure to reduce disparities among institutions.
Furthermore, the impact of AI on scientific discovery was addressed, stressing the importance of recognizing researchers' intellectual contributions and ensuring that AI complements human curiosity, thinking, and creativity.
The leaders noted that AI's rapid advancement demands deeper international cooperation and principles that bolster integrity, openness, and trust, supporting responsible research and technology development for societal benefit.
Saudi Arabia's involvement continues its engagement in global research, development, and innovation, contributing to international scientific discussions and building partnerships with leading research institutions to foster a more open and trusted scientific ecosystem.
