OpenAI CEO Expresses Optimism For Global AI Coordination
OpenAI CEO Sam Altman has expressed his optimism regarding the prospects of global coordination on artificial intelligence (AI).
In his tour to global capital cities, Altman engaged with policymakers and regulators to discuss the potential risks associated with AI and the need for appropriate guidelines. The CEO's interactions left him feeling positive about the possibility of achieving global cooperation to mitigate existential risks tied to AI.
"I came to the trip... skeptical that it was going to be possible in the short term to get global cooperation to reduce existential risk, but I am now wrapping up the trip feeling quite optimistic we can get it done," Altman stated during a talk with students in Tokyo.
Generative AI, which can create text and images, has generated both excitement and fear about its transformative potential across various industries. As a result, regulators worldwide are actively working to adapt existing rules and create new guidelines to govern its use.
The European Union has been progressing with its draft AI Act, expected to become law this year, while the United States is leaning towards adapting existing legislation rather than implementing new laws specifically for AI.
Altman had previously visited Japan in April, where he met with Prime Minister Fumio Kishida. Altman expressed his consideration of opening an OpenAI office in the country and noted that conversations had progressed positively, without offering further details.
Japan, known for its strong manufacturing industry, is often seen as lagging in the adoption of consumer-centric AI services. Nonetheless, Altman acknowledged the country's long history of human-machine collaboration, suggesting potential opportunities for AI integration.
Altman is scheduled to continue his tour with visits to Singapore, Indonesia and Australia before returning to the United States.
