As a former Assistant Secretary at the U.S. State Department, I saw first hand the critical intersection between technology and diplomacy. In a world where technology is no longer a separate industry, but rather the foundation of every industry, we should work with global partners to ensure that tech is a positive force for global citizens, especially the most vulnerable. The Krach Institute for Tech Diplomacy at Purdue is at the center of promoting this idea.

International partnerships accelerate technological advancements, and interoperability of innovations ensures the safety and security of the United States and our allies. Purdue's groundbreaking initiative brings Technology Diplomacy to the forefront of international engagement and strengthens the foundation for peace and security worldwide.

AI is making decision-makers uncomfortable. We are used to leaders going through many layers of approval; by the time of decision, the question is no longer relevant. AI tools help us make quicker decisions, especially in cyber.

Technology is the bedrock for all future diplomatic engagement. Whether it be transformational hardware, labor force participation or value generated from digital assets — how the world comes together, or moves apart, will be determined by how nations come to terms with these defining features of the next generation.

Tech diplomacy will steer the direction of the new economy and the Fourth Industrial Revolution, whether built on foundations of freedom or control.

There are competing international development models and worldviews, and technology is a key component in both. The American development model deploys technology to support developing nations’ self-determination and improve peoples’ lives. Competing development models use technology as a means of control, robbing nations of their sovereignty. Diplomatic engagement is vital to clarify the different development paths nations face — and to build lasting partnerships that improves lives, increases opportunity, and fosters freedom across the globe.

The robust use of technology in international affairs will define the future practice of diplomacy and, more importantly, the strength of democracy, human rights and prosperity in the US and the democratic world.

Trusted Connectivity represents the Free World framework to meet global digital and infrastructure demands. It offers continuity, consistency and complementarity across individual national and regional trust and connectivity initiatives including EU’s Global Gateway, Three Seas Initiative (3SI), Blue Dot Network, Africa Agenda 2063, ASEAN Connectivity Master Plan, etc.