The United Arab Emirates has emphasized artificial intelligence as a cornerstone for achieving sustainable development and balanced economic growth during the 11th BRICS Parliamentary Forum held in Brazil’s capital this week.
Speaking at a dedicated session on “Parliamentary Cooperation for Responsible and Inclusive Artificial Intelligence,” Sara Mohammad Falaknaz, a member of the UAE’s Federal National Council (FNC), outlined the country’s vision for AI-driven progress while stressing the need for ethical governance frameworks, according to The Tribune.
AI as development catalyst
“Artificial intelligence represents a promising opportunity for achieving development and balanced growth,” Falaknaz told the international parliamentary gathering, as reported by The Tribune via ANI/WAM news agencies. However, she cautioned that realizing AI’s full potential requires robust governance structures anchored in fair and equitable legislation.
The UAE representative emphasised that technological advancement must not compromise fundamental principles of justice, privacy, and digital sovereignty, according to the report. She highlighted the critical importance of incorporating ethical and human dimensions into legal and regulatory frameworks governing AI development and deployment.
UAE’s AI leadership
Falaknaz showcased the UAE’s pioneering role in AI governance and development, citing several groundbreaking initiatives that position the country as a global leader in anticipating technological futures, The Tribune reported.
Key achievements highlighted include the appointment of the world’s first Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence, demonstrating the UAE’s commitment to high-level AI governance. The launch of the UAE Artificial Intelligence Strategy 2031 aims to enhance government performance and drive economic excellence through strategic AI implementation.
The establishment of the Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence further underscores the country’s commitment to building comprehensive AI capabilities and expertise, according to the news report.
Call for international cooperation
The UAE’s parliamentary representative concluded her address by advocating for flexible and ethical legislation that can adapt to rapid technological developments while supporting innovation ecosystems. She stressed the need for enhanced international parliamentary cooperation to facilitate knowledge sharing and develop unified standards ensuring safe and inclusive digital transformation.
BRICS Forum context
The 11th BRICS Parliamentary Forum brought together legislative representatives from Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, and newer members including the UAE, which joined the alliance in 2024. Parliamentary delegations engaged in discussions spanning climate issues, artificial intelligence, peace and security, and institutional parliamentary cooperation.
The forum’s focus on AI governance reflects growing recognition among emerging economies of artificial intelligence’s transformative potential and the need for coordinated policy responses to manage its societal implications.
The UAE’s participation in the forum demonstrates its commitment to multilateral engagement on technology governance as it continues positioning itself as a regional hub for AI innovation and responsible development.
