A rule based international order and the primacy of the global institutions are imperatives for maintaining peace in the emerging multipolar and multilateral world. This was stated by Lieutenant General JP Mathew, Chief of Integrated Defence Staff to the Chairman Chiefs of Staff Committee (CISC), in the Indo-Pacific Chiefs of Defence conference titled ‘The Future Indo-Pacific : Building a Resilient and Interconnected Region’, from 18 to 20 September 2024 at Hawaii, United States.
The CISC in his address stated that all stakeholders, and especially the developing countries, want peace, stability, and prosperity in the region. With international organisations undergoing much needed reforms, flexible and dynamic councils could present solutions to deal with contemporary challenges, he stressed. The future of the Indo-Pacific, safeguarding the international system, regional capacity building, and threats and opportunities of emerging technologies, especially Artificial Intelligence were some of the major issues discussed.
In the conference, convergence emerged on the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) as a general purpose technology, having a multiplier effect on other technologies and functions. A robust AI model, which is under constant training, could give policy fidelity and maintain checks and balances, especially in matters related to the use of strategic weapons. Imposition of strict regulations on AI would be a regressive step as it could lead to denial of this critical technology to developing countries.
A total of 28 countries and multilateral organisations participated in the Indo-Pacific Chiefs of Defence. The primary objective of the conference was improving military to military cooperation. This annual event is a forum for building consensus and aligns with the commitment to a rule based world order.