Event summary
The signing of the Memorandum of Understanding
His Excellency Ambassador Nasser S. Al-Sabeeh, Assistant Foreign Minister for the Saud N. Al-Sabah Kuwait Diplomatic Institute (KDI), and Dr Jovan Kurbalija, Director of Diplo, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) formalising a strategic partnership between the two institutions. This agreement marked a significant collaboration to advance capacity development frameworks and activities for Kuwaiti diplomats, reaffirming the shared commitment to the continuous education and enhancement of diplomatic skills.
The MoU outlines specific objectives to enhance the competencies of diplomats within the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, emphasising capacity development, knowledge sharing, and the responsible use of AI technology in policy development and diplomatic practices. This partnership leverages existing resources and facilities for mutual benefit, focusing on global digital policy discussions and the practical application of AI in diplomacy. The agreement followed an initial executive training on diplomatic negotiations and AI in diplomacy conducted for Kuwaiti diplomats in April this year.
'The Role of Diplomacy in AI Geopolitics' public lecture
After the MoU signing, Dr Jovan Kurbalija delivered a public lecture titled 'The Role of Diplomacy in AI Geopolitics' to Kuwaiti diplomats and representatives of the diplomatic corps. As part of the ongoing educational efforts, this lecture covered three main aspects of AI in diplomacy: AI as a topic on the diplomatic agenda, AI as a new environment for diplomatic work, and AI as a tool in diplomatic practice.
Dr Kurbalija clarified that AI is not a replacement for diplomats but rather a tool that can enhance their work. He emphasised the importance of diplomats understanding basic AI concepts to engage in international discussions effectively. He also highlighted the practical applications of AI tools in streamlining diplomatic tasks, such as diplomatic reporting. The lecture underscored the necessity for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to develop internal capacities by training staff and diplomats to master AI tools, ensuring they can successfully represent their countries' interests and protect sensitive information.
Source: Kuwait Television (NewsKTV1)
Event description
Kuwait City, Kuwait — 21 May 2024
His Excellency Ambassador Nasser S. Al-Sabeeh, Assistant Foreign Minister for the Saud N. Al-Sabah Kuwait Diplomatic Institute, and Dr Jovan Kurbalija, Director of DiploFoundation, will sign a Memorandum of Understanding. This agreement signifies a key partnership between the two institutions aimed at advancing capacity development frameworks and activities.
This formalised strategic partnership between the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the State of Kuwait and Diplo follows the first executive training on diplomatic negotiations and AI in diplomacy conducted for Kuwaiti diplomats in April this year.
The MoU sets forth specific objectives to enhance the competencies of diplomats within the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, focusing on capacity development and knowledge sharing. It highlights a joint commitment to education and the enhancement of diplomatic skills, with a focus on the responsible use of AI technology in policy development and diplomatic practices. The partnership leverages existing resources and facilities for mutual benefit, emphasising global digital policy discussions and the smart application of AI in diplomacy.
