US Vice President JD Vance has commended Pope Leo XIV's recent encyclical on the risks associated with artificial intelligence, describing it as 'profound' and necessary moral guidance.

The encyclical, named 'Magnifica Humanitas,' outlines potential hazards of AI, including the emergence of 'new forms of slavery.'

Vance, a former venture capitalist with ties to the tech industry and supporters like Elon Musk, acknowledged the changing nature of applying moral principles in an evolving world.

He noted that while the underlying principles remain constant, adapting them to new contexts is essential for addressing emerging challenges.

The Vatican's stance on migration policy has been at odds with the White House, with Pope Leo XIV expressing opposition to mass deportations.

Vance, who converted to Catholicism in 2019 and appreciates the pontiff's nod to historical predecessors like Leo XIII, sees the church as crucial for providing moral leadership in the AI era.

Vance emphasized that navigating the complexities of artificial intelligence requires comprehensive moral guidance, highlighting the church's role in addressing these questions effectively.

The vice president's statement underscores a growing recognition of the need for such guidance as AI technologies continue to shape society.