Prime Minister of Tonga Advocates for the Use of Artificial Intelligence in Climate Action
5 December, 2023. The Prime Minister of Tonga, Honorable Hu’akavameiliku, has highlighted the positive impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI) on climate action at the High level Commonwealth side event during the 28th session of the Conference of the Parties’ to the Climate Change Convention (COP28).
The discussion, centered on leveraging AI for Climate Action and Youth Empowerment, underscored the potential of technology in addressing climate change challenges.
In a conversation with the Secretary General of the Commonwealth, The Rt Hon. Patricia Scotland, the Prime Minister emphasized the current environmental concerns faced by Tonga, including drought and the prediction of severe tropical cyclones.
Tonga is keen on leveraging AI technologies to tackle these challenges, and the Prime Minister looks forward to insights from participants such as NVIDIA, RSS Hydro, and the Commonwealth Secretariat.
A notable part of the side event included a presentation showcasing the use of cutting-edge AI platforms to visualize scientific projections of sea level rise for the Islands of Tongatapu. The Prime Minister stated, “This is an example of how AI can be used for good in the area of climate change.”
Acknowledging the risks and challenges for small island developing states within the Commonwealth, the Prime Minister stressed the importance of collaboration. “Working together is key to tackle new cyber security threats and ensure that the use of AI is responsible, ethical, accountable, and accessible to all,” said Hon. Hu’akavameiliku.
The Prime Minister further highlighted the necessity of strengthening national and international policies aligned with existing commitments to the environment, human rights, and sustainable development.
Additionally, recognizing the transformative impact of AI on the workforce, he emphasized the need to equip young people with the skills and competencies required for a rapidly transforming job market.
Expressing confidence in facing challenges together as a Commonwealth Family, the Prime Minister extended gratitude to academia, the private sector, and civil society for their support in leveraging AI for the common good.
Accompanying the Prime Minister were the Minister for Agriculture and Fisheries, Lord Fohe, Chief Secretary and Secretary for Cabinet Mr. Paula Ma’u, Chief Executive Officer for MEIDECC Mr. Sione ‘Akau’ola, and members of the Tongan Delegation for COP28.
