Next step for Nordic and Baltic cooperation on Artificial Intelligence

Nordic: Siltanews – News Desk
At their meeting in Stockholm November 8th the Nordic and Baltic Ministers of Digitalisation, underscored the importance of regional cooperation and enhanced coordination to address both the immense opportunities as well as the technical and ethical challenges posed by AI.

The ministers were particularly interested in how to ensure that AI solutions, while enhancing competitiveness are safe, transparent, and aligned with Nordic values. At the meeting representatives from public and private sector organisations presented 21 recommendations, which are the outcome of the High-level AI Readiness Forum held in Copenhagen on 30th of August. 

“We are in the midst of a technological shift where AI has great potential to transform large parts of society. These recommendations point out a joint direction for the Nordics when it comes to cooperation around AI. This not only strengthens our possibility to influence technological development, it also contributes to a more sustainable and safe use of the technology”, says Minister of Public Administration with responsibility for digital policy, Erik Slottner.

Among the 21 cross-sectoral recommendations is the suggestion to form a new Nordic-Baltic Centre for Applied AI. The fundamental idea is to link national AI networks with each other and optimize national investments by leveraging the strengths of each country through increased cooperation. Such a centre could promote the responsible use of AI and contribute to the goals of the Nordic Council of Ministers’ Vision 2030 of being the most sustainable and integrated region in the world.

Secretary General Karen Ellemann highlights the region’s unique position and potential, with its strong technological ecosystem and solid democratic values. “I want to say thank you for some very clear and relevant recommendations. Collaboration across our countries and sectors provides us with a unique opportunity in responsible AI that not only enhances our competitiveness but also contributes to a sustainable future. The recommendations are an inspiring example of how private and public actors can leverage each other’s strengths, and we in the Nordic Council of Ministers look forward to working further with these proposals”, Ellemann says.