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Emperor makes speech in English at international forum in Kyoto
Emperor Naruhito delivered a speech in English at the 22nd Science and Technology in Society forum in Kyoto, emphasizing the innovations and challenges posed by AI. He urged global leaders to collaborate for sustainable development and signified the importance of science and technology in shaping the future of humanity.
Key points
- Emperor Naruhito spoke at the STS forum in Kyoto, his sixth attendance at this event since his time as crown prince.
- He addressed the role of AI in generating innovations while acknowledging the challenges that come with it.
- The emperor expressed a wish for global leaders to collaborate in utilizing science and technology for sustainable development.
- The empress attended the forum as well, marking her second attendance.
- The couple attended sessions on future global developments, including discussions about 2030 and beyond.
Why it matters
- The forum's focus on AI aligns with global trends towards integrating technology in all sectors, a significant aspect of digital transformation being discussed in 2025.
- Historical context includes Japan's long-standing commitment to technology and innovation, making its imperial family's participation significant in encouraging international collaboration.
- AI's ethical implications are a critical theme in current discourse, reflecting an ongoing concern for sustainable practices in technology as seen in recent global initiatives.
Emperor Naruhito's speech underscores Japan's position as a leader in global discussions on science and technology, especially in the context of AI's potential and its challenges, reinforcing the need for international cooperation for a sustainable future.