EU leaders join AI summit targeting safe, sustainable tech innovation

EU leaders are gathering in Paris for a major two-day Artificial Intelligence Action Summit focused on ethical AI development and global governance, with President von der Leyen and key executives representing the European Commission.

Event Overview: The AI Action Summit, co-chaired by France and India, will convene on February 10th and 11th, bringing together global leaders, tech executives, and stakeholders to address AI governance and innovation challenges.

• The summit builds upon previous AI safety meetings held in Bletchley Park and Seoul
• The gathering aims to establish global consensus on ethical AI development while promoting innovation
• France’s President Emmanuel Macron will host key events at the Palais de l’Elysée

Key EU Participation: The European Commission’s presence demonstrates its commitment to shaping global AI policy and fostering technological sovereignty.

• President Ursula von der Leyen will deliver remarks at the summit’s closing session
• Executive Vice-President Henna Virkkunen will lead discussions on EU AI governance and codes of practice
• Executive Vice-President Stéphane Séjourné will participate in high-level meetings focused on industrial strategy

Strategic Agenda: The summit will address multiple aspects of AI development and regulation, with a particular focus on building trust and promoting innovation.

• Sessions will cover updates on EU Codes of Practice for AI
• Discussions will explore the concept of “Building the EU AI Continent”
• Special attention will be given to developing AI applications for public benefit

European Innovation Focus: The summit includes strategic visits to highlight Europe’s technological capabilities and startup ecosystem.

• Executive Vice-President Virkkunen will visit Station F, Europe’s largest startup incubator
• The visit will showcase Europe’s AI assets, including top talent and supercomputing facilities
• Bilateral meetings with ministers and AI business leaders are scheduled to strengthen partnerships

Looking Beyond the Summit: The gathering represents a crucial step in establishing a coordinated global approach to AI development, though questions remain about how different regions will align their regulatory frameworks while maintaining competitive advantages in AI innovation.