OpenAI chief Sam Altman tells G7 to ‘not cede responsibilities’ to AI giants

OpenAI CEO Sam Altman addressed G7 leaders at the summit in Evian-les-Bains, France, on June 17, urging them not to defer responsibility for AI governance to companies like his own. He stressed that governments must set global standards, stating, ‘We develop the technology, and the citizens of the free world make the rules.’ Altman argued that technologists lack the authority to dictate societal decisions about AI, despite their expertise. The remarks came as the U.S. and Europe clash over AI regulation. The European Union has implemented strict risk-based rules, while the Trump administration has rolled back restrictions to accelerate innovation. However, the U.S. has also imposed a temporary ban on foreign access to advanced AI models from companies like Anthropic, citing national security concerns. Altman acknowledged OpenAI’s compliance with U.S. law but recognized the sovereignty of democratic nations in the room. He predicted rapid AI advancements within a year or two, comparing their potential impact to the harnessing of electricity. The G7 summit, hosted by France, included leaders from Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Britain, and the U.S., alongside invited guests from Brazil, India, and Kenya. The debate underscores global divisions over balancing innovation with oversight. Altman’s call for government-led regulation reflects growing concerns about AI’s unchecked development, particularly as its capabilities expand.