Transatlantic cooperation on artificial intelligence: joint statement by DIGITALEUROPE and US Congressman Jerry McNerney

Ahead of the second meeting of the EU-US Trade and Technology Council, taking place on 15 and 16 May in Paris, DIGITALEUROPE’s Director-General Cecilia Bonefeld-Dahl and United States Representative Jerry McNerney, Chair of the Congressional AI Caucus, have issued the following joint statement on the need for transatlantic cooperation on artificial intelligence.

“Artificial Intelligence is addressing some of our biggest global challenges – including combatting climate change, detecting cyber threats, and improving health care diagnostics and treatments. American and European firms are developing new innovations, but differences in regulatory approaches can hinder collaboration, thereby delaying or preventing progress.

The transatlantic Trade and Technology Council (TTC) provides a forum for cooperation and collaboration to open pathways for innovators to thrive and succeed. This will allow us to more readily access the benefits of technology, while creating jobs and increasing economic growth. More AI innovation in the transatlantic space will also ensure we retain our technological edge.

Ahead of the TTC meeting next month, we urge negotiators to focus on aligning common AI standards, as well as setting common principles for AI risk assessment. It is imperative to prioritize these shared goals as early as possible to ensure compatibility to enhance collaboration and healthy competition, in addition to maintaining security. We also strongly encourage both the United States and the European Union to take measures to address the AI skills gap.

Sharing common values, the EU and U.S. have an opportunity to set the international standard for the responsible and beneficial use of AI.”