Brazil unveils AI strategy focused on social inclusion, digi

SAO PAULO, Feb. 20 (Xinhua) -- Brazil's government on Friday unveiled its strategic vision for artificial intelligence (AI), noting that its development and application should be guided by social inclusion, digital sovereignty and sustainable development.

During a panel at the India AI Impact Summit 2026 in New Delhi, Brazilian officials detailed public policies designed to integrate AI into health care, education, public services and digital infrastructure, according to a statement from the Brazilian presidency.

Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation Luciana Santos noted that in 2024 the government launched the Brazilian Artificial Intelligence Plan 2024-2028, earmarking 23 billion reais (about 4.4 billion U.S. dollars) in public investment over four years.

"The goal is to promote the development, availability and use of artificial intelligence in Brazil, directing it to address national economic, environmental and cultural challenges," she said.

Minister of Communications Frederico Siqueira said the expansion of digital commerce and the inclusion of millions of people who remain offline require more telecommunications infrastructure and data centers.

Minister of Health Alexandre Padilha said Brazil seeks to position itself as a regional leader in the use of AI in healthcare, bringing together government, science and industry to build a secure and sovereign environment in digital health.

Foreign Minister Mauro Vieira reiterated the need for global AI governance, warning that "we cannot repeat the mistakes of the past."