TOKYO, June 12 – OpenAI CEO Sam Altman, whose company is behind the widely-used ChatGPT artificial intelligence (AI) system, has expressed optimism regarding the prospects for global coordination on AI regulation during his recent tour of capital cities. Altman’s trip aims to leverage the growing interest in generative AI and aid in shaping the regulation of this rapidly expanding technology.
Generative AI, capable of creating text and images, has been generating both excitement and concern due to its potential to revolutionize various industries. Regulators worldwide are now striving to adapt existing rules and develop new guidelines for governing this technology.
The European Union is expected to pass the draft AI Act into law this year, while the United States prefers to adapt existing laws for AI rather than creating new legislation. In April, Altman visited Japan, where he met with Prime Minister Fumio Kishida and discussed the possibility of establishing an OpenAI office in the country.
Although initially doubtful about the chances of achieving short-term global cooperation to reduce existential risk, Altman informed students in Tokyo that he now feels “quite optimistic we can get it done.”
While Japan’s manufacturing giants invest in automation technology, the nation has been slow to adopt AI services that currently generate enthusiasm among consumers. Nevertheless, Altman sees potential in the country, citing the “long history of humans and machines working together here.”
Before returning to the U.S., Altman is scheduled to visit Singapore, Indonesia, and Australia to continue his efforts to promote global cooperation on AI regulation.
