San Francisco hosted yesterday the first in a series of webinars exploring the rapid development of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and its applications to different aspects of society, everyday life, and research. Organized by the Embassy of Italy in Washington and the Consulate General in San Francisco, in partnership with the National Science Foundation (NSF), this webinar featured a discussion specifically on the role of artificial intelligence in future urban mobility. The next discussions of the series will continue in Boston and Houston with a focus on medicine and space.
In the opening remarks, Ambassador Varricchio noted how “The United States and Italy are at the forefront of innovation and already share many collaborations among research labs and companies. Both countries share common values on integrity and transparency in scientific and technological research”. Varricchio recalled the recent approval of Italy’s National Strategy for Artificial Intelligence and the adoption of a National Research Program 2021-27 which prioritizes the promotion of the international dimension of research.
According to a recent analysis presented at the World Economic Forum in Davos, artificial intelligence is predicted to add 14 percent to the global GDP by 2030. Artificial intelligence has enormous potential to address critical social challenges and promote more inclusive growth around the world.
In the US, the National Science Foundation, a historic partner of Italy, has recently launched the NSF-led National Artificial Intelligence Research Institutes, establishing a set of hubs in a broader nationwide network that will accelerate research in this field. This collaboration is yet another example of continued partnership between the two countries.
The panel discussion, moderated by Massimo Gaggi, columnist and senior correspondent for Corriere della Sera, included remarks from noted leaders in the field of artificial intelligence:
– Margaret Martonosi, the NSF Assistant Director of the Computer Information Science and Engineering Directorate
– David Miller – Program Director – NSF
– Marco Pavone – Director, Autonomous Systems Lab. – Stanford University
– Silvio Savarese – Director, Computational Vision and Geometry Lab – Stanford University
– Rita Cucchiara – Director, National CINI Lab in Artificial Intelligence and Intelligent Systems, UNIMORE
– Alberto Broggi – General Manager, Ambarella Italy
2021 marks 160 years of diplomatic relations between Italy and the United States. The year-long celebration will include discussions and events highlighting opportunities for cooperation around innovation, technology, research, culture, economic and trade relations and will examine the past, present, and future ties between the two countries. Many events will feature collaborations and partnerships with universities, museums, companies, and concert halls in both Italy and the U.S.
For a list of events and public diplomacy activities please visit our social media accounts @ItalyInUS and our official website at www.ambwashingtondc.esteri.it.
