UK ai Week Kicks Off in Bangkok: Discussions on ai Governance and Applications
The British embassy recently hosted the inaugural UK ai Week in Bangkok to stimulate conversations surrounding ai governance and applications. The four-day event took place between 15th and 18th August, showcasing the UK’s prowess in ai and strengthening the growing partnership between the UK and Thailand.
High-Level Policy Roundtable: Gathering Experts and Policymakers
The week commenced with a high-level policy roundtable on 15th August at the Eastin Grand Hotel Phayathai. Distinguished guests included representatives from the World Bank, International Monetary Fund (IMF), Asian Development Bank (ADB), and United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO).
Roundtable Discussions: Crucial Topics in ai Governance
The roundtable discussions delved into essential topics such as ai regulation and governance, investment strategies, the potential impact of ai across various sectors, and its role as a catalyst for positive change.
ai Week Reception: Unveiling the UK’s ai Strategy
Following the policy roundtable, an ai Week reception was held at the Ambassador’s Residence. The event brought together UK experts, Thai government officials, and multilateral organizations like UNESCO. This reception provided an opportunity to reveal the UK’s ai strategy and establish new relationships between stakeholders.
Participation of British ai Businesses: Showcasing Diverse Capabilities
A highlight of the week was the participation of nine British ai and data businesses in the GREAT Pavilion at the Thailand Tech Trade Show. The summit attracted over 15,000 tech experts, investors, and businesses, exhibiting the diverse commercial capabilities of UK enterprises in sectors ranging from agriculture and finance to climate and cybersecurity.
Workshops and Discussions: Engaging Attendees
Attendees had the chance to engage in workshops led by UK experts on ai applications in health, public services, and national ai strategy development. British businesses and experts also contributed to discussions on topics like climate tech, femtech, and air quality and presented their innovations to local venture capitalists.
Successful Event: Collaboration and Technological Advancement
Natalie Black, His Majesty’s Trade Commissioner for Asia Pacific, expressed excitement about the event. “With over 160 unicorns and a tech sector worth $1 trillion, the UK looks forward to offering our expertise and partnership in developing ai for good. I am excited to see deepening tech collaborations between our two countries.”
The week’s activities concluded with the ‘Turing Night’ event on 18th August at Icon Siam. The event, attended by over 150 government officials, tech businesses, and investors, featured an exhibition, networking reception, panel discussion on ai, and a screening of the film ‘The Imitation Game’.
Future Plans: UK’s Commitment to ai Leadership
David Thomas, British Charge d’Affaires to Thailand, remarked, “UK ai Week epitomises the modern spirit of collaboration between the UK and Thailand, fostering innovation and advancing free and ethical ai development.”
The success of the UK ai Week in Bangkok underscores the UK’s dedication to technological advancement and international collaboration in shaping the future of ai for the betterment of society.
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