G20 – The Importance of AI in National Growth

Talal Abu-Ghazaleh

Artificial Intelligence was a key subject discussed at the recent G20 Summit in South Africa. Having followed international discussions for many years, I found it noteworthy that AI was no longer treated as an abstract innovation but as a decisive factor shaping economies and societies. Leaders reaffirmed the G20 AI Principles and they emphasized its role as a tool for sustainable development, equity, and prosperity.
They endorsed international cooperation to unlock AI’s potential while managing risks, welcoming the AI for Africa Initiative, a voluntary platform for collaboration between the G20 and the African Union. This initiative promotes access to computing power, representative datasets, and training programs to build local talent, while encouraging long‑term partnerships to develop sovereign capabilities tailored to national priorities.
The Summit highlighted equitable access to AI infrastructure as essential for inclusive growth. Nations, therefore, must secure computing resources, data governance systems and technical expertise, or risk leaving AI concentrated in a few countries. Leaders did in fact stress the need for responsible management to protect human rights and build trust.
AI can support agriculture, healthcare, education and disaster management by improving efficiency, reducing costs and expanding access to services. For developing nations, it offers a chance to leapfrog traditional barriers to growth, provided infrastructure and training are available.
Summit discussions encouraged countries to build sovereign AI systems that reflect their priorities and values, serving local needs, protecting cultural identity and supporting long‑term development. During my chairmanships of international organizations, particularly the UN ICT Taskforce under UNGAID, I have argued that AI must be treated as a public good. The G20 echoed this view by linking AI to sustainable development and equity.
Artificial intelligence and global governance are inseparable. The Summit recognized the urgency of addressing risks while harnessing AI’s potential for development. The challenge now is to move from voluntary principles to binding commitments and to ensure equitable access to infrastructure and sovereign capabilities. Managed wisely, AI can become a foundation for inclusive growth and a fairer global economy.