The joint statement issued by the European Union and the United States on Friday underscores their commitment to enhanced cooperation in artificial intelligence (AI), particularly regarding AI safety, governance, and broader collaboration on various tech issues. These include the development of digital identity standards and advocating for platform responsibility to safeguard human rights.
As reported earlier this week, this joint effort marks the culmination of the sixth meeting of the EU-U.S. Trade and Technology Council (TTC), which has been in session since 2021 to mend transatlantic relations after the Trump administration’s tenure.
However, with the upcoming U.S. presidential elections potentially reintroducing Donald Trump to the White House, the continuity of EU-U.S. collaboration on AI and strategic tech remains uncertain. Nevertheless, amidst the current political climate on both sides of the Atlantic, there is a growing momentum towards closer alignment on tech issues, potentially influencing voters to opt for collaborative approaches over divisive ones during elections.
In a specific section addressing AI, labeled “Advancing Transatlantic Leadership on Critical and Emerging Technologies,” both parties reaffirm their commitment to a risk-based approach to AI, emphasizing the importance of safe, secure, and trustworthy AI technologies. They encourage the adoption of the Hiroshima Process International Code of Conduct for Organizations Developing Advanced AI Systems, complementing existing governance and regulatory frameworks.
A significant outcome of the sixth TTC meeting is the establishment of a “Dialogue” between EU and U.S. AI oversight bodies to facilitate deeper collaboration, with a focus on sharing scientific information and discussing topics such as benchmarks, risks, and future trends in AI technology. This collaboration aims to advance the implementation of the Joint Roadmap on Evaluation and Measurement Tools for Trustworthy AI and Risk Management, promoting interoperable and international standards.
Additionally, both parties aim to drive research efforts in applying machine learning technologies for beneficial purposes, such as improving healthcare, agriculture, and addressing climate change, with a focus on sustainable development. There is also a commitment to expand collaboration with global partners to leverage AI for development initiatives in Africa and beyond.
Regarding platform governance, the joint statement emphasizes the importance of protecting information integrity and addressing threats posed by AI-generated content, such as deepfakes. Both parties call on tech platforms to support researchers’ access to data, particularly for studying societal risks.
In the realm of e-identity, ongoing collaboration on standards work aims to enable cross-border use of digital identities and wallets.
Overall, the joint statement reflects a shared commitment between the EU and U.S. to advance cooperation on various tech fronts, including AI, platform governance, clean energy, quantum, and 6G, despite potential political uncertainties.