By: Staff Writer
July 30, Colombo (LNW): Sri Lanka has urged the Asia Pacific region to address the security implications of Artificial Intelligence (AI).
In his speech at the 31st Ministerial Meeting of the ASEAN Regional Forum in Laos, State Minister of Foreign Affairs Tharaka Balasuriya emphasized the need for a unified approach to tackling the emerging challenges posed by AI and other new technologies.
He stressed the importance of taking preventive measures to prevent misuse and ensure that these technologies do not undermine peace and security in the region.
Balasuriya also highlighted the necessity of addressing cyber and network security challenges and combating transnational organized crime. He called for strong action against cybercrime hubs and employment frauds that are affecting parts of the region.
In addition to sustaining the Asia-Pacific region’s efforts to promote peace, security, and cooperation, the Forum must address challenges to cyber and network security systems and tackle transnational organized crime,” Balasuriya was quoted as saying in a statement by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
He “called for decisive action against cybercrime centres and employment rackets taking place in some parts of the region.”
During and after the country’s economic crisis several Sri Lankans travelled abroad on visit visas to find employment. Some groups fell prey to trafficking.
A group of Sri Lankans held in Myanmar were repatriated earlier this year with the help of the International Organization for Migration providing logistical assistance.
This year’s ARF Ministerial meeting attended by 27 ARF members, was chaired by the Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Saleumxay Kommasith of Lao PDR, which holds the ASEAN Chairmanship.
In the meantime, election monitoring organizations have voiced concerns about the use of AI in the upcoming presidential election campaigns. The election period has begun, and it is expected that AI technology will play a significant role.
This election is poised to be historic, being the first to heavily incorporate AI technology, providing both new opportunities and challenges for voters and candidates alike.
The widespread use of AI in this election is unprecedented locally, though there are global examples. The upcoming presidential election, scheduled for September 21, will be a significant test of AI technology in the electoral process.
One notable development, President Ranil Wickremesinghe, has commented on the potential of AI in education and stressed the importance of learning from past mistakes in information technology.
He has advocated for the local development of AI and the integration of AI into educational systems.
Furthermore, on July 27, the National People’s Power (NPP) launched a website utilizing AI technology. This move marks a historic milestone as Anura Kumara Dissanayake, the NPP’s presidential candidate, will be the first in the country to leverage AI technology in his campaign.
This development underscores the growing influence of AI in Sri Lankan politics and its potential impact on future elections.
