Official government publications or announcements

Biden Issues National Security Memo Directing AI Adoption, Addressing China Concerns, Balancing Ethics and Security

Oct 24, 2024, 01:39 PM

President Biden has issued a National Security Memorandum directing federal agencies, including the Pentagon and intelligence services, to accelerate the adoption and integration of artificial intelligence (AI) technologies into their operations while ensuring that this adoption balances security with human rights and privacy. The memorandum emphasizes the importance of harnessing AI to enhance national security, improve government efficiency, and drive innovation. It outlines a coordinated approach that includes attracting technical talent, building computational power, and procuring the most powerful AI systems possible. The administration is also emphasizing the need for safeguards to ensure the safe, secure, and trustworthy development of AI, with measures to protect AI systems from foreign adversaries like China. National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan highlighted concerns over China's use of AI to repress its population, spread misinformation, and potentially coerce other nations. In addition, the Biden administration is set to host an AI safety summit in California, uniting leaders to tackle ethical and safety challenges in AI innovation. This initiative underscores the administration's commitment to maintaining U.S. leadership in AI and establishing government guidelines to provide essential guardrails for AI tools in the public sector.