As artificial intelligence (AI) technologies become increasingly embedded in public governance, strategic foresight is essential to ensure their alignment with democratic values, legal norms, and public trust. This chapter explores the strategic integration of AI in the public sector, with a focus on rule-based AI systems as an ethically sound, transparent, and legally compliant pathway for modernization. Through a comprehensive review of literature and governance trends, we propose a multi-layered conceptual framework—comprising Foundational, Adoption, and Acceleration layers—to guide policymakers in navigating the complex socio-technical landscape of AI-driven public administration. Anchored in the core pillars of transparency, fairness, and security, the framework offers strategic guidance for building resilient and citizen-centered AI systems. The paper concludes with policy recommendations and an expanded governance model to address emerging challenges, including inclusiveness, sustainability, adaptability, and ethical oversight. This work aims to support decision-makers in shaping AI adoption not only as a technological shift but as a strategic lever for institutional transformation and public value creation.