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Exchange Ideas, Challenge Assumptions to Help Harness Artificial Intelligence Sustainably, Ethically, Secretary-General Tells Young Scientists Conference

Following is UN Secretary-General António Guterres' message to the Global Young Academy General Meeting and International Conference of Young Scientists, held in Bremen, Germany, today:

I am pleased to share my well wishes with the Global Young Academy and the International Conference of Young Scientists.

We are living at a time of unprecedented digital transformation. From climate action to healthcare, from agriculture to peace and security, every aspect of our society is being reshaped by powerful new technologies.

That is why this year's theme of machine learning is so timely. Over the past 12 months, the United Nations launched the Independent International Scientific Panel on AI and the Global Dialogue on AI Governance - vital steps towards ensuring these technologies are guided by rigorous evidence, and respect for human rights.

As a valued partner of the Secretary-General's Scientific Advisory Board, your discussions this week will provide insights for the United Nations - and the world - on how to harness artificial intelligence sustainably and ethically.

Breakthroughs happen through connection - across disciplines and across borders. I encourage you to use this time to exchange ideas, challenge assumptions and build new collaborations.

Our future depends on scientists who place people and planet at the heart of all they do. That new generation of thinkers is in this room. May your eureka moments shape a better world for us all.