TLDR: The Global Dialogue Forum (GDF), in collaboration with the Club of Rome – India, recently convened an international conclave in Colombo, Sri Lanka. The event focused on the critical role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in advancing green energy initiatives, ensuring food security, and bolstering cybersecurity. Leaders and experts from around the world discussed practical AI applications and emphasized responsible governance for a sustainable digital future.
Colombo, Sri Lanka – The Global Dialogue Forum (GDF), in a significant partnership with the Club of Rome – India, successfully hosted its international conclave on ‘AI in Powering Green Energy, Food Security & Cybersecurity’ at the Galle Face Hotel in Colombo. The full-day event, held recently, brought together a diverse group of global policymakers, distinguished academics, prominent industry leaders, and innovative thinkers to delve into the practical deployment of Artificial Intelligence (AI) to tackle some of society’s most pressing challenges.
Moses Manoharan, Chairman of the Global Dialogue Forum, articulated the core objective of the conclave, stating, “The question before us is how humanity can use Artificial Intelligence to meet its most urgent needs—securing energy, food, and digital systems.” He further emphasized the forum’s commitment to fostering a broader movement for sustainable solutions by opening these crucial discussions to a global audience.
Sri Lanka’s Deputy Minister of Digital Economy, Eranga Weeraratne, graced the conference and shared his vision for a resilient and green digital future, powered by AI. He underscored the imperative of bridging the global AI divide and strengthening cybersecurity, which he identified as foundational pillars for a secure digital nation. The strategic overview for the event was delivered by Lt. General Arun Sahni (Retd), Secretary General of the Club of Rome – India. The inaugural address was presented by Air First Marshal Dr. Ir. Arwin Sumari, Special Staff to the Chief of Staff of the Indonesian Air Force and Head of Indonesia’s Cognitive AI Research Group.
The conclave featured four comprehensive thematic sessions designed to explore various facets of AI’s application. These sessions included discussions on AI’s role in facilitating the transition from fossil fuels to green energy, enhancing agricultural productivity and water security through AI, developing AI-driven investment models in green finance, and a crucial panel dialogue on fostering North-South collaboration and governance in the AI landscape.
Throughout the discussions, there was a strong emphasis on the principles of transparency, accountability, and data sovereignty. Participants were urged to approach AI development and deployment with caution and responsibility, treating AI as ‘a very smart intern who must be guided responsibly’ to ensure its growth aligns with and supports broader societal goals.
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With robust participation from regional and global stakeholders, the Global Dialogue Forum successfully reaffirmed Colombo’s growing stature as a vital hub for international policy discourse. The conclave served as an invaluable platform for the exchange of ideas, building mutual understanding, and charting AI-driven pathways toward the creation of sustainable, resilient, and inclusive societies.
