Original Source: AFP – Agence France Presse
Date of Publication: May 1, 2024
Ukraine has introduced a groundbreaking innovation in its foreign ministry by unveiling Victoria, an AI-generated spokeswoman. This digital representative named Victoria Shi will now deliver official statements on behalf of Ukraine’s foreign ministry.
In a historic move, Ukraine is embracing technology by employing an AI-powered figure to communicate its messages. However, it’s important to note that while Victoria Shi will visually present the statements, the content itself will still be crafted by real people.
During the presentation shared on social media, Victoria Shi appeared dressed in a professional dark suit, introducing herself as a “digital person.” She mimics human gestures, moving her hands and head while speaking.
Contrary to some misconceptions, the actual statements delivered by Victoria Shi are not generated by AI; they are meticulously composed and verified by human personnel. The AI’s role is limited to generating the visual aspect of the presentation.
Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba hailed this innovation as a significant technological advancement, marking a milestone that no other diplomatic service has achieved. The primary motive behind introducing Victoria Shi is to streamline processes and conserve resources for diplomats.
The masterminds behind Victoria Shi are a team known as The Game Changers, recognized for their expertise in developing virtual reality content related to Ukraine’s ongoing conflict. The name “Shi” is a fusion of “victory” and the Ukrainian term for artificial intelligence, “shtuchniy intelekt.”
Interestingly, Victoria Shi’s appearance and voice are modeled after a real person named Rosalie Nombre, who gained fame as a singer and participant in Ukraine’s version of The Bachelor reality show. Rosalie Nombre, born in the city of Donetsk, now under Russian control, uses her Instagram platform to discuss various topics, including stereotypes about mixed-race Ukrainians and Russian-speaking individuals.
It’s essential to clarify that Rosalie Nombre and Victoria Shi are distinct individuals. Nombre volunteered her likeness for this project without charge. The foreign ministry emphasizes that only Victoria Shi, the AI figure, delivers official statements.
To ensure authenticity and combat misinformation, each statement delivered by Victoria Shi will be accompanied by a QR code linking to its text version on the ministry’s website.
In her role, Victoria Shi will address topics such as consular services, which have recently sparked controversy. Ukraine’s decision to suspend certain consular services for men of fighting age living abroad has stirred debate, requiring them to return home for administrative procedures and potentially face military conscription.
By introducing Victoria Shi, Ukraine is pioneering the integration of AI in diplomatic communication, setting a new standard for efficiency and innovation in the global arena.
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