Brussels: European AI Gigafactories, as well as the European Space Act, are expected to be among the key issues discussed by the ministers of the 27 at the Competitiveness Council – Research in Brussels. Upon his arrival on Tuesday morning, Deputy Minister of Research, Innovation and Digital Policy Nicodemos Damianou referred to the agenda items, which are directly linked to the technological autonomy and competitiveness of the EU. The EU must accelerate in innovation, AI and space technologies, he said.
According to Cyprus News Agency, Damianou stressed that the presence of the Cypriot delegation at the Council is ‘another piece of the puzzle in the preparations for the Cyprus EU Presidency,’ noting that Nicosia is in Brussels to present ‘our key focus areas and objectives on research, innovation and space technologies for the upcoming Cyprus Presidency of the Council of the EU.’
He underlined that for Cyprus and for Europe as a whole, strengthening research and innovation constitutes ‘a central pillar for Europe’s competitiveness, strategic autonomy, sovereignty and ultimately, economic prosperity.’
At the same time, the Deputy Minister highlighted the need for Europe to accelerate its startup-support policies. ‘For Europe to lead, we must push forward with the Startup and Scaleup Strategy. We must push forward with the European Innovation Act, maintain, keep our talent here and fund the progress of our startups and scaleups through ambitious and bold actions,’ he added.
He also made special reference to artificial intelligence, noting that building European capacity in AI – particularly for science and research – together with enabling the necessary infrastructure and capabilities ‘is extremely important.’
On the level of international relations, Damianou said that Cyprus aims to strengthen scientific diplomacy ‘in cooperation with neighbouring MENA countries, with particular emphasis on the Gulf countries and the broader Middle East.’
Referring to the space portfolio, he stressed that this sector represents ‘the next technology frontier,’ underscoring that Europe must accelerate the implementation of its space programme. ‘In that respect, the EU Space Act, which we will be handling during our Presidency, is instrumental in enabling clear and transparent governance, harmonisation and safe deployment of space assets,’ he noted.
Finally, he expressed his thanks to the outgoing Danish Presidency, as well as to Poland as a member of the Presidential Trio, for their collaboration and engagement.