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Tokyo and Hiroshima Join Forces for AI Advancement

On January 26, 2024, a significant agreement has been established between Tokyo, Hiroshima Prefecture, and the General Foundation GovTech Tokyo, focusing on the promotion of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in public administration. This collaboration aims to enhance the quality of resident services and improve the overall efficiency of government operations through the effective use of AI technology.

Details of the Agreement

The recently signed agreement, known as the “Fundamental Agreement on Collaboration and Cooperation in Promoting AI Utilization,” outlines several key points designed to foster AI development and integration within public services:

1. Establishing an AI Utilization Environment: Focused primarily on generative AI, the initiative aims to create a conducive environment for the application of AI technologies. This involves setting up necessary infrastructure and guidelines to ensure that generative AI can be employed effectively and ethically within municipal services.

2. Sharing Knowledge on AI Applications: The agreement emphasizes the importance of knowledge sharing among the parties involved. By pooling resources and expertise, Tokyo and Hiroshima aim to harness best practices in AI applications, ensuring that both regions benefit from advanced insights and discoveries in AI technology.

3. Training and Exchange of AI Personnel: Recognizing the importance of human resources, the agreement includes provisions for the training of staff responsible for AI applications. This training will not only hone skills but also encourage cooperation and exchanges between personnel from both regions, enriching their experiences and capabilities.

4. Additional Necessary Collaboration: The agreement allows for any further measures deemed necessary to achieve the objectives of collaboration in AI utilization, showing an openness to adapt as the partnership evolves.

Comments from Leaders

In remarks following the agreement, Tokyo Governor Yuriko Koike expressed optimism about the potential benefits of this collaboration. She stated that the utilization of AI will enable both Tokyo and Hiroshima residents to experience a higher standard of administrative services. This strategic approach to AI in Tokyo is set to deepen and broaden the application of AI technologies through the partnership with Hiroshima. Koike emphasized the rapid changes in today's era, stressing that connecting generative AI platforms will lead to better AI outcomes in government services.

Hiroshima Governor Michiko Yokota conveyed her excitement regarding this collaboration, noting that Hiroshima aims to accelerate AI utilization to carve a new future. By securing a partnership with the forefront municipality of Tokyo and GovTech Tokyo, Hiroshima anticipates sharing cutting-edge insights and fostering a safe and effective AI application environment. The goal is not only to streamline prefectural office operations but also to create new services that residents can appreciate. Yokota underscored the importance of cultivating a model of community safety that can serve as an example for other municipalities across the country.

A Step Towards the Future

This significant agreement aligns with the “2050 Tokyo Strategy,” which includes structural reforms aimed at enhancing the quality of services within the Tokyo Metropolitan area, dubbed 'QOS' (Quality of Service). The collaboration between Tokyo and Hiroshima marks a substantial step toward leveraging AI in public administration, ensuring that both regions are poised to lead in the future of intelligent governance and citizen services.

As this partnership unfolds, it is clear that the integration of AI within public services is not only a technological advancement but also a commitment to improving the lives of residents in these two vibrant regions of Japan. Both governments are dedicated to creating a safer and more efficient future, illustrating a model of urban governance that embraces innovation and collaboration.