National artificial intelligence strategy to be released next week, Carney says

Canada’s federal government will unveil its long-awaited artificial intelligence strategy next week, Prime Minister Mark Carney confirmed on Wednesday. The announcement comes after delays, as Artificial Intelligence Minister Evan Solomon initially promised the strategy by the end of 2025. The strategy has evolved from an industry-focused approach to address broader concerns about AI safety and social impacts, reflecting a global shift in public discourse. The strategy will emphasize six key pillars outlined in the government’s spring economic statement. These include introducing new privacy and online safety laws, developing sovereign compute infrastructure, and supporting the growth of Canadian AI companies. Additionally, it will coordinate with international allies, particularly middle powers advocating for stricter AI regulations compared to the United States. Solomon has highlighted the strategy’s focus on AI’s impact on the labor market, aiming to balance support for innovation with concerns from critics. The government also plans to expand AI training and education for Canadians, ensuring the technology’s benefits are widely distributed across the economy. The strategy will prioritize ‘pro-worker, industrial AI technologies’ to align AI development with labor needs. The shift in Canada’s approach reflects growing global tensions around AI regulation, particularly as the country strengthens ties with like-minded nations. The strategy aims to position Canada as a leader in responsible AI adoption while fostering economic growth through targeted investments and policy frameworks.