In an unprecedented initiative, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine has announced the launch of a novel AI-inspired figure, Victoria Shi, to serve as a virtual spokesperson.
This pioneering digital entity, attired in a sleek dark suit, made its first appearance in a video on social media, displaying convincingly life-like gestures and head movements as she addressed the audience.
Victoria Shi, despite her virtual facade, will voice statements that are composed by flesh-and-blood individuals. “The AI’s contribution is confined to creating the visual aspect,” clarified representatives of the ministry’s press team to AFP.
Advancements in Diplomatic Communication
The introduction of this digital spokesperson is being touted as a first-of-its-kind innovation within the sphere of international diplomacy. The Ukrainian Foreign Minister, Dmytro Kuleba, has drawn attention to the pioneering nature of such a development, “This is a quantum leap that distinguishes our diplomatic corps from any other in the world,” noted Kuleba, also underscoring how the novel approach enhances efficiency and reduces expenditure.
The creation of the digital persona, Victoria Shi, is attributed to the creative collective, The Game Changers, respected for its work on virtual narratives about Ukraine’s ongoing conflict. The name ‘Victoria Shi’ is an amalgamation of the English word representing victory and a term signifying artificial intelligence in Ukrainian.
The physical and vocal attributes of Victoria are based on Rosalie Nombre, a celebrated vocalist with a sizeable Instagram following, originating from Donetsk, currently under Russian control. Through Victoria, Nombre’s physical and vocal traits come to life, adding depth to the storylines associated with one’s roots and linguistic heritage.
To ensure authenticity, each of Victoria’s announcements will come with an accompanying QR code. When accessed, this code will redirect users to the written version of the statement on the ministry’s official website. The AI spokesperson’s initial tasks will involve dispensing updates on consulate services, particularly with reference to the ongoing reforms and the temporary suspension of these services for military-age males residing abroad.
The ministry’s officials have been keen to highlight that Rosalie Nombre’s involvement has been strictly on a voluntary basis and that Victoria and Rosalie are entirely distinct entities. It is Victoria alone who will be dispensing official communiqués. This clear demarcation also functions to curb the spread of disinformation.
This strategic move towards an AI-powered spokesperson signals Ukraine’s foray into the advanced domain of digital diplomacy, promising operational savings and enhanced engagement with critical topics such as consulate services during a turbulent time..
