Prime Minister Mark Carney spoke to Pope Leo XIV about the importance of protecting humanity in the context of artificial intelligence, according to a readout from the Prime Minister's Office. The conversation took place after the pontiff released new guidance on AI directed at global Catholics and Christians.
Key Discussion Points
Carney thanked the Pope for his leadership in the field of AI. The readout stated that they discussed the imperative that AI must serve humanity, beginning with the protection of the individual. Carney expressed Canada's desire to lead internationally on responsible AI and tools to benefit the global community.
Vatican's Return of Indigenous Artifacts
The pair also discussed the Vatican's return of some Indigenous artifacts to Canada from its museums, a longstanding call from Indigenous leaders and residential school survivors. Additionally, they addressed the need for global peace.
Pope's Encyclical Letter
In his encyclical letter, the first since becoming pontiff last year, Pope Leo XIV warned about the consequences of mass data collection. He stated, "In the era of artificial intelligence, when human dignity is threatened by new forms of dehumanization, ours is the pressing duty to remain profoundly human." The Pope emphasized that freedom in the digital age requires clear rules, transparency, and limits on intrusive technologies.
The pontiff opened his letter by illustrating that humanity is at a crossroads: "Either to construct a new Tower of Babel or to build the city in which God and humanity dwell together."
Canada's AI Strategy
Carney told reporters that the government's long-awaited artificial intelligence strategy is expected next week, spearheaded by Artificial Intelligence Minister Evan Solomon. Solomon's office has only said the release is imminent, without confirming a specific date. Canada's approach to AI, particularly chatbots, has faced scrutiny since a shooter opened fire in Tumbler Ridge, B.C.
