Kathmandu, Oct 2: Minister for Foreign Affairs Dr Arzu Rana Deuba has called for the responsible use of artificial intelligence for the good of humanity.
Addressing a dialogue on ‘Artificial Intelligence and New Business Models’ during the Second Asian Cooperation Dialogue (ACD) Business Forum Meeting in Doha, Qatar earlier today, Minister Dr Rana described AI as not just a technological tool but an influential driver in numerous ways, including shaping and reshaping global worldview, financial architecture, governance and human life, as well as education, health and security.
Underscoring the potential of AI in bringing about world peace, stability and prosperity, she said, “In today’s complex and competitive business world, AI has become a big game changer in many ways. It should not be misused but should be creatively used.”
Dr Rana urged countries to leverage from this technology in areas of commerce and professions, including education, health, good governance, economic development and security. Dr Rana also highlighted AI’s role in tailoring products and services by analysing customer data and preferences, using AI-driven predictive analytics to assess market trends and consumer-focused needs, making informed strategic decisions based on customer choices and optimisation of resource, and improving operational efficiency. Additionally, she underscored its use in reducing operational costs and promoting smart business models, which increase competitiveness for innovation. 
The Foreign Minister, however, highlighted several associated risks and challenges, including concerns about data privacy, job displacement, misinformation, deepfakes and data manipulation, and the growing digital divide.
On a different note, Minister Dr Rana urged the world community to invest in Nepal, emphasizing that the country offers an investment-friendly climate as it has entered an era of peace, stability and prosperity following promulgation of the Constitution. “Recently, we have amended over a dozens of laws and streamlined processes to foster an environment conducive to investment in various sectors. Nepal has prioritised energy, manufacturing, tourism, infrastructure development, education, health, and agriculture as priority sectors of investment.
Underscoring Nepal’s huge potentials for business partnerships in AI field, Dr Rana said, “I take this opportunity to call on business communities present here to explore avenues of investment in Nepal and expand business partnerships with Nepali counterparts.” She also highlighted that Nepal has published the AI concept paper and is now drafting the AI policy and AI strategy, while preparing to develop a national data strategy, which is essential for data governance and AI.
“Nepal has drafted the e-governance blueprint, which includes more than 40 action items essential for digital transformation.”
Dr Rana is leading a Nepali delegation to the Summit of Asia Cooperation Dialogue underway in Doha, Qatar. She reached Doha after attending the 79th UN General Assembly in New York, USA. #DrArzu #nepal #ACD
