Nine Mediterranean countries agree to boost AI collaboration

VALLETTA -- Technology ministers from nine Mediterranean countries on Wednesday pledged to boost collaboration on the use of artificial intelligence (AI).

A digital economy meeting was held in Malta, attended by technology ministers from the MED9 countries, namely Malta, Spain, Croatia, Cyprus, France, Greece, Italy, Portugal and Slovenia.

At the meeting, Malta's Minister for the Economy Silvio Schembri called for more collaboration and knowledge exchange on the use of AI between Mediterranean countries.

In a joint statement issued after the meeting, the MED9 countries agreed to invest in robust infrastructure in AI, to develop centers for research and development in the Mediterranean region, and to continue to encourage innovation.

They will also consider how AI can be best used in the public service, to work together to develop AI talents, and to use trusted AI technologies in the fight against cybercrime and to protect systems and data.

Also in Malta, the first edition of the country's Industry and Digital Expo (Techxpo) is ongoing until Thursday, showcasing Malta's endeavors in AI, technology and industry. The MED9 group toured the expo on Wednesday.