Canada and the Pope unite to push for ethical AI oversight ahead of national strategy

Prime Minister Mark Carney held talks with Pope Leo XIV today to discuss the future of artificial intelligence. The meeting comes as Canada prepares to unveil its national AI strategy next week. Both leaders emphasised the need for stronger global oversight of the technology.

The conversation took place after Pope Leo XIV released a document urging stricter AI regulations. Carney praised the Pope’s stance, calling it a vital step in shaping ethical standards for the technology.

During the discussion, the prime minister reaffirmed Canada’s ambition to take a leading role in responsible AI development. He described the country’s upcoming national strategy as a key part of this effort. The Prime Minister’s Office later confirmed the details of the call. Officials noted that both leaders agreed on the importance of international cooperation in managing AI’s risks and benefits.

Canada’s long-awaited AI strategy will be published next week. The plan aims to position the country as a global leader in ethical and regulated artificial intelligence. The government has yet to release specific policies but stressed alignment with the Pope’s recent guidance.