The EU and U.S. held a critical meeting of the Trade and Technology Council in April 2023, focusing on maintaining collaboration amid shifting political landscapes. Key areas of discussion included artificial intelligence, semiconductors, sustainability in trade practices, and fundamental rights protection in the digital sphere. Both parties are strategizing for future cooperation, especially concerning critical raw materials and a shared approach to technology standards as they prepare for upcoming elections.
Brussels is witnessing a pivotal moment in EU-US relations, as the EU-United States Trade and Technology Council (TTC) convenes in Leuven. This meeting, held on April 4-5, 2023, emphasizes continued collaboration since September 2021, despite growing concerns over potential political shifts in the U.S. as election season approaches. The European Commission highlighted the need for both sides to reflect on achievements and strategize for the future, particularly with the possibility of Donald Trump’s return to power.
High-level officials from both entities participated in discussions, including EU Executive Vice Presidents Margrethe Vestager and Valdis Dombrovskis, along with Thierry Breton. U.S. representatives included Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo. The meetings occur against the backdrop of geopolitical tensions from the Russian-Ukrainian conflict and global economic challenges, reinforcing the necessity of ongoing cooperation.
Key topics addressed included a risk-based approach to artificial intelligence, aiming for a secure technology landscape. A new collaboration between the EU’s AI Office and the U.S. Security Institute is set to develop tools and benchmarks for AI model evaluation. Additionally, a joint statement was adopted to outline a shared vision for 6G advancements, alongside an agreement for research collaboration.
On digital identity, the EU and U.S. are finalizing a report to enhance interoperability of digital identities across borders, targeted for EU citizens by 2026. In semiconductor collaboration, existing agreements will be extended, focusing on supply chain transparency and researching alternative materials to enhance sustainability in this tech sector.
The commitment to sustainable trade practices involves developing a joint catalog of best practices for green public procurement, emphasizing worker fairness throughout supply chains. Clean energy incentives were also highlighted as central to trade policies, with initiatives for compatible electric vehicle charging infrastructure.
Negotiations are ongoing regarding critical raw materials aimed at strengthening supply chains for electric vehicle batteries, emphasizing labor and environmental protections. The launch of the Minerals Security Partnership Forum symbolizes further collaboration between Brussels and Washington in enhancing supply chain resilience in critical minerals.
Finally, the TTC underscored the importance of fundamental rights protection in the digital realm. As both regions approach elections, they are committed to supporting global democracies and reinforcing human rights, addressing issues like gender-based violence and media independence to maintain a fair digital environment for all users.
Original Source: www.eunews.it
