S Jaishankar Explains How AI Influences Modern Diplomacy: Projection vs. Prognostication

While recognizing AI systems' utility, Foreign Minister S Jaishankar also emphasized their limitations.

New Delhi:

During a conversation with NDTV's CEO and Editor-in-Chief Rahul Kanwal at the HT Leadership Summit on Saturday, Foreign Minister S Jaishankar provided a thoughtful perspective on artificial intelligence's increasing influence in global diplomacy.

When questioned about how AI is transforming diplomatic practices and how foreign services are adapting to these technological changes, Jaishankar shared his initial experience with the technology.

"Well, you know, the first impact of it I saw was when more pieces of paper began arriving on my desk, which looked more like me, till I discovered it was ChatGPT," he remarked, eliciting laughter from those in attendance.

Kanwal further inquired whether his team had effectively "coded" him into the system and if he welcomed this development. Jaishankar indicated that the answer was complex.

Though acknowledging AI systems' benefits, he also pointed out their constraints. "It's a good thing because in many ways it captures everything you have done," he explained. "The problem is that it doesn't capture what you intend to do, which may be radically different from what your past record is. So it's a projection. It's not always a prognostication," he further noted.

Kanwal mentioned that when he input certain questions into ChatGPT, the platform predicted what Jaishankar's responses might be. The minister simply laughed in response, possibly indicating that while AI may be learning from his public profile, it fails to capture the intuition and judgment that drive actual diplomatic efforts.

From Technology to India-US Trade Relations

Shifting from technology to economics, Jaishankar addressed the potential for an India-US trade agreement, dismissing concerns about differences between the two countries. He emphasized that India must resolutely protect its interests.

"We believe there can be a landing point for our respective trade interests. It is something that will be negotiated hard. For us, the interests of the workers, farmers, and the middle class matter. When we look at trade agreements with the US, we must be judicious," he stated.

Jaishankar also clarified that communication with Washington remains active and ongoing, highlighting engagement as essential for resolving disagreements. Describing trade as the "most important issue with the US," he expressed optimism that a reasonable agreement could be achieved soon.