In a time of intensifying great power competition and significant global transitions, artificial intelligence has become a central arena for geopolitical influence. As competing models for AI governance emerge, small and medium-sized states face increasing pressure to develop their own AI capacities while navigating between competing technological ecosystems, regulatory models, and political alignments. This creates a timely opportunity for regions to align priorities and strengthen their collective voice in multilateral governance discussions to ensure they can chart their own path forward.
Participants highlighted that without stronger collaboration among small and medium-sized states, global AI development risks becoming increasingly concentrated among a small number of technological superpowers and hyperscale platforms. Strengthening cooperation among these regions can help promote shared priorities such as human-centric innovation, responsible governance frameworks, human rights protections, and more balanced global technology ecosystems.
Discussions also underscored the importance of moving beyond governance principles alone. Building resilient AI ecosystems will require investments in infrastructure, capital mobilization, talent development, and research collaboration. Participants explored potential cooperation around shared data assets, joint research initiatives, AI infrastructure partnerships, government capacity building, and emerging challenges such as AI copyright and intellectual property.
