A U.S. Department of State official named Paul Dean stated that the adoption of Artificial Intelligence (AI) can help global military forces minimize accidental bombings during operations.
Mr. Dean, serving as the Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary in the Bureau of Arms Control, Deterrence, and Stability, emphasized during a recent roundtable with journalists in Abuja that AI has the potential to enhance military operations by ensuring adherence to international humanitarian law, improving efficiency, eliminating biases, and enhancing decision-making processes.
He mentioned that his bureau, along with 47 other partners, has endorsed the ‘Political Declaration on the Responsible Use of AI and Autonomy in Military Applications.’
Mr. Dean encouraged Nigerian partners to endorse the declaration, highlighting the opportunity for collective efforts to establish an international framework for responsible AI use in the military.
In Mr. Dean’s perspective, this is a historic opportunity to collaborate with global partners, and he expressed confidence in Nigeria’s leadership potential in this area.
He believes that Nigeria’s commitment to responsible behavior and stability makes it an indispensable partner in discussions about ensuring the safe and reliable incorporation of AI in the military.
Mr. Dean asserted that AI could contribute significantly to global stability, and the U.S. government aims to promote its positive application in military operations.
Simultaneously, he emphasized the importance of international cooperation to establish norms of responsible behavior, reducing the risks associated with unintended consequences or negative applications of AI.
Detailing the bureau’s engagement, Mr. Dean explained its focus on deterring conflicts, promoting stability, and encouraging responsible behavior in the military domain.
He highlighted the intention to strengthen relationships, especially in the area of AI in the military, and to build a normative framework for its responsible usage.
Regarding space security, Mr. Dean acknowledged Nigeria’s partnership in an initiative endorsing a commitment against direct destructive anti-satellite tests.
“I am convinced after our meetings yesterday, that we have a lot in common, a lot of mutual objectives to work in a constructive and mutually beneficial way.
“So, I’m very pleased to lead A-Team here to Abuja to have these consultations and further strengthen this partnership in the area of international stability,” he added.
This initiative aims to keep space free from debris that can negatively impact not only military satellites but all satellites.
Touching upon illicit arms proliferation, Mr. Dean expressed the U.S.’s continued support for Nigeria’s efforts to reduce the threats and risks arising from the proliferation of small arms.
Overall, he conveyed optimism about the mutual objectives and common ground between the U.S. and Nigeria in promoting international stability and cooperation.
