ALBUQUERQUE, NM—The Southwest Public Policy Institute (SPPI) had the privilege of hosting a delegation of ten leaders from Southeast Asia through the Global Ties ABQ program on November 21, 2024. The presentation, part of the U.S. State Department’s initiative on Artificial Intelligence Policy, Security, and Ethics for the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), explored the intersection of artificial intelligence, regulatory policy, and governance with a free-market and data-driven approach.
Delegates from Burma, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, and Thailand attended the session, focusing on SPPI’s innovative policy recommendations and their implications for AI regulation in banking and political spheres. The institute highlighted AI’s unique challenges and opportunities in the American Southwest and the broader global policy landscape.
SPPI’s presentation, led by President Patrick M. Brenner, provided insights into ethical considerations, cybersecurity challenges, and regulatory frameworks surrounding AI. “This dialogue underscored the importance of responsible innovation and inclusive governance as we navigate the complexities of artificial intelligence,” said Brenner. “It was an honor to collaborate with these distinguished leaders and contribute to shaping the global conversation on AI policy.”
The engagement marks a milestone in SPPI’s collaboration with Global Ties ABQ, a nonprofit with over 35 years of experience connecting Albuquerque to international visitors through cultural and professional exchange. Global Ties ABQ’s use of SPPI’s research in their successful bid to host this delegation exemplifies the impact of SPPI’s work in advancing evidence-based policy solutions.
SPPI has been invited to participate in the next cohort of the prestigious Young Leaders of the Americas Initiative (YLAI) Fellowship Program in 2025. The YLAI program empowers entrepreneurs from Latin America, the Caribbean, and Canada to develop leadership and entrepreneurial skills through partnerships with U.S. organizations. SPPI will host fellows during the four-week professional placement segment, contributing to their Entrepreneurial Leadership Action Plans and fostering international collaboration in policy innovation and economic development.
The ASEAN delegation’s visit was part of the U.S. State Department’s International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP), which connects rising international leaders with American organizations. SPPI will continue to partner with Global Ties to engage future delegations and foster dialogue that bridges cultural and professional divides.