On June 5, 2024, Singapore and the United States announced a collaborative effort to bolster skills in artificial intelligence (AI) through the launch of the AI Talent Bridge initiative. This new program aims to support youth, women, and future leaders in the evolving AI landscape, expanding on a previous initiative for women in tech established in June 2022.

US Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo and Singapore’s Minister for Communications and Information Josephine Teo emphasized the importance of accessibility to essential skills for all, particularly women. Raimondo, speaking during a closed-door US-Singapore Roundtable on AI, highlighted the shared commitment to ensuring equitable access to AI training and education.

Teo noted the impressive investment landscape, with US companies demonstrating significant confidence in Singapore’s digital economy. Over the coming years, these companies are expected to invest more than S$50 billion in AI and digital technologies within Singapore. Teo stressed that such large capital investments undergo rigorous assessments to ensure they yield strong returns.

The roundtable featured executives from major companies, including Google, Microsoft, Nvidia, and Grab, showcasing the collaborative spirit between US and Singaporean firms. The initiative also aims to enhance AI capabilities for over 130,000 workers in Singapore.

In addition to talent development, the Ministry of Communications and Information (MCI) and the US Department of Commerce (DOC) plan to strengthen cooperation on AI governance and safety. Raimondo emphasized the importance of developing AI standards that ensure human rights and national security, stating, “the key to adoption is trust.”

Both nations acknowledge the opportunities presented by AI but recognize the challenges that accompany its rapid growth. They have been working on new governance frameworks for AI and will continue sharing best practices and research to advance the field safely and responsibly.