Chat with us, powered by LiveChatEU-US Summit bolsters tech and green economy ties - FASI
FASI - Funding Aid Strategies Investments

EU-US Summit bolsters tech and green economy ties

|News
05 April 2024

EU flags in front of Berlayment building, open credit via pixabayTaking place in Leuven, Belgium from 4-5 April 2024, the Trade and Technology Council (TTC)'s sixth ministerial meeting sets the stage for a new era of transatlantic cooperation.

Amidst a backdrop of increasing geopolitical instability, including Russia's war against Ukraine and escalating tensions in the Middle East, the meeting underlined the resilience and unity of the European Union and the United States in both facing shared challenges – as well as creating new research and investment opportunities.

Co-chaired by high-level officials from both sides of the Atlantic, including the Margrethe Vestager, the European Commission Executive Vice President, the summit was not just a diplomatic gathering but a crucible for fostering economic security, prosperity, and innovation. The TTC has become a pivotal platform for addressing global trade dilemmas, strengthening economic ties, and paving the way for a transition to climate-neutral economies. The Transatlantic Initiative on Sustainable Trade (TIST), for instance, aim to create a stronger, sustainable, and resilient marketplace, and is a testament to the council's commitment to environmentally responsible trade and the advancement of digital trade tool interoperability, significantly reducing trading costs across the Atlantic.

Leadership for tomorrow's tech

Acknowledging the increasing demands of global security in an era where both intellectual property and technological sovereignty are critical aspects of continued business, the meeting highlighted the importance of leadership in emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), quantum technologies, and 6G wireless communication systems. The EU and the US are harmonizing their efforts to foster innovation while ensuring the protection of human rights and the upholding of democratic values. The commitment to developing a joint '6G vision', for instance, displayed the two regions' shared belief in the transformative power of advanced connectivity for a sustainable and secure global economy.

Crafting a Green and Sustainable future

The council also emphasized the importance of building resilient supply chains, particularly in semiconductors, critical minerals, and biotechnology. By extending collaboration on semiconductor supply chain resilience and negotiating towards a Critical Minerals Agreement, the TTC aims to mitigate dependencies and enhance economic security. These efforts are crucial in maintaining leadership in cutting-edge technologies and ensuring the secure supply of indispensable components across key industry sectors.

Underlining the role of sustainable and green transition as a driver for economic growth, the TTC spotlighted initiatives such as the EU-US Clean Energy Incentives Dialogue and a focus on secure and sustainable supply chains for the clean energy transition - reflecting a shared commitment to tackling the climate crisis while fostering job creation and innovation.

This meeting marks a significant step forward in transatlantic relations, showcasing a deepened commitment to addressing global challenges through cooperation and innovation. As the EU and the US continue to navigate the complexities of the digital age and geopolitical uncertainties, this dialogue is vital to building a sustainable, secure future for partners on both sides of the Atlantic.

;