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Government leaders, researchers, and global technology experts gathered at the Artificial Intelligence Forum, held as part of the World Government Summit 2025, to explore the future role of artificial intelligence in driving global economic transformation. The forum brought together high-level officials and industry pioneers to discuss AI’s impact on advanced scientific research and the governance frameworks needed for the next decade.
The event served as a platform for unifying global perspectives on how artificial intelligence can enhance productivity, develop infrastructure, ensure safety, and transform workforce structures. Participants also examined geopolitical aspects of AI and explored ways to ensure its benefits extend to both developed and developing economies.
Leadership Perspectives on Artificial Intelligence Adoption
The forum opened with keynote addresses from Dr. David Moinina Sengeh, Prime Minister of Sierra Leone, and Munyoung Lim, Vice President of Korea’s Presidential Council for National AI Strategy. Dr. Sengeh emphasized the necessity of making artificial intelligence a priority for all governments, citing its broad impact on societies, economies, and development pathways.
According to Dr. Sengeh, the UAE and the World Government Summit platform have been at the forefront of these efforts for years, leading the formulation of a global vision for AI development. He noted that countries like Sierra Leone are now following these pioneering examples, stressing that equity, equal opportunity, and inclusivity must be at the core of digital transformation.
Korea’s Vision for AI Democracy
Meanwhile, Lim presented Korea’s vision for an “AI-Foundational Society” in partnership with the international community. He explained that Korea, having established its democracy through the power of knowledge, aims to ensure that emerging AI capabilities become a universal human right accessible to all global communities.
Additionally, Lim highlighted Korea’s commitment to democratic principles in shaping its artificial intelligence strategy. The approach emphasizes transparency and shared benefits across international borders.
From AI Adoption to Competitive Advantage
A session titled “The AI Economy: From Adoption to Competitive Advantage” addressed the importance of transitioning from merely adopting AI technologies to deploying them strategically for high global returns. Participants discussed the foundations of a successful artificial intelligence economy, including redesigning processes and business models to increase productivity, accelerate innovation, and improve user experiences.
However, the session emphasized that these advances must align with responsible AI principles, including transparency, security, and trust. Experts warned that without proper governance frameworks, the rapid deployment of AI systems could create unforeseen challenges.
Beyond Generative AI Applications
In a session titled “Beyond Generative AI: From Innovation to Real Impact,” Laila Ibrahim, Chief Operating Officer at Google DeepMind, shared insights on transitioning to measurable, sustainable real-world impact. She outlined how generative artificial intelligence can transform research innovations into applications with significant returns across various sectors.
Ibrahim stressed the importance of measuring real impact based on improving community quality of life. The discussion also covered building reliable, scalable systems and integrating generative AI into daily institutional workflows, alongside investing in infrastructure and specialized skills.
Energy and Infrastructure Challenges
The forum addressed critical challenges related to rising energy consumption and the need for clean, flexible energy sources to support AI infrastructure. Participants discussed advanced nuclear power, hydrogen solutions, and innovative cooling and storage systems as potential answers to growing data center demands.
In contrast to traditional approaches, speakers emphasized proactive planning and integration between technology and energy sectors. This collaboration is essential for ensuring sustainable data center growth that supports digital transformation while meeting sustainability goals and addressing the geopolitical and economic dimensions of energy infrastructure.
Corporate AI Integration
Antonio Zappulla, CEO of Thomson Reuters, participated in a session examining future perspectives on business sector adoption of artificial intelligence. The discussion focused on the profound transformations AI introduces to business models and decision-making processes within organizations.
The forum highlighted the acceleration in developing AI models, AI agents, and advanced reasoning structures, which place traditional governance frameworks under increasing pressure. The global race for computing power, data access, and talent underscores the importance of nations balancing innovation with scientific integrity, safety assessment, infrastructure readiness, and comprehensive access.
As artificial intelligence continues evolving rapidly, participants acknowledged that countries must develop adaptive governance structures capable of managing competing demands. The forum concluded with recognition that ongoing international dialogue will be essential for addressing sustainability pressures and ensuring equitable AI access worldwide.
