The Chief Artificial Intelligence Advisor of the EU, Jim Hageman Snabe, told commissioners at a seminar that the union should focus on using AI to improve production and economic growth instead of competing in AI development. According to him, this technology could be Europe's best opportunity to accelerate growth in various sectors, including healthcare, agriculture, transportation, defense, and manufacturing.
Emphasis on Effective Use of AI
Jim Hageman Snabe, who was recently appointed as the special representative for industrial AI, urged commissioners at the seminar on September 4 to focus on how to leverage this technology for greater benefit instead of worrying about leading the development of advanced AI models. He pointed out that the European Commission should strive to benefit from the economic advantages of AI while managing the associated risks to jobs, security, and society.
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Need to Identify Barriers and Utilize AI
At another seminar held a week before Snabe's remarks, an AI expert suggested to the commissioners that AI models should be used to accelerate improvements in production and public services. The expert highlighted the importance of identifying key applications of AI and the barriers to its use. He also pointed to the need for appropriate regulations to facilitate the testing of autonomous vehicles and to provide secure data spaces for personalized medical treatments.
Snabe and other experts emphasized the necessity of creating an environment for testing, growing, and scaling successful ideas. They also noted that it is essential to ensure that Europe retains a share of the value created by AI and does not become dependent on one or more external suppliers.
The European Commission is working to develop a comprehensive plan for the use of AI across various sectors by December. Snabe and his team will analyze sectors, review pilot projects, and assess the infrastructure and technologies needed for AI utilization. A final report and strategy are expected to be formed in early 2027.
A spokesperson for the Commission, Thomas Renier, stated that Snabe's seminar focused on how to accelerate the adoption of industrial AI in Europe. He also added that the special representative will provide an evidence-based and forward-looking report in this area.
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