Defence Minister Khawaja Asif has cautioned that the increasing reliance on artificial intelligence (AI) in military systems could make future wars significantly more dangerous, posing serious threats to global peace and stability. His comments came during a high-level debate on AI.

“As AI simplifies decision-making processes, it also creates conditions that may escalate the dangers of future conflicts”, Asif stated, urging nations to ensure that technological advancements are utilised under the UN Charter for the benefit of humanity.

He highlighted that Pakistan introduced its first national AI policy earlier this year, demonstrating the government’s commitment to responsible innovation while implementing safeguards against potential misuse.

“The world must adopt collective measures to prevent an uncontrolled arms race in this domain”, he emphasised.

“We must ensure that AI is used to promote peace and development, not conflict and instability”.

In his closing remarks, Asif reaffirmed Pakistan’s dedication to supporting international efforts aimed at balancing technological progress with the need for global peace and stability.

Earlier in the debate, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres noted that AI is no longer a distant prospect; it is transforming daily life, the information landscape, and the global economy at an unprecedented pace.

He pointed out that when used responsibly, AI can enhance prevention and protection efforts, such as anticipating food insecurity and aiding in de-mining operations.

However, Guterres also raised concerns about AI-enabled cyberattacks that could disrupt critical infrastructure and compromise information integrity. “Innovation must serve humanity, not undermine it”, he stated.

He recalled the establishment of an Independent International Scientific Panel on AI and an annual Global Dialogue on AI Governance by the UN General Assembly last month.

Emphasising the need for human oversight, he insisted that the decisions involving life and death cannot be left to algorithms.

He urged state members to ensure human control in any use of force and reiterated the call for a legally binding ban on lethal autonomous weapons systems operating without human oversight by 2026.

“Any decision regarding nuclear weapon use must also remain in human hands, not machines”, he stressed.