(ANSA) - ROME, NOV 7 - The EU says it must increase investment in artificial intelligence and facilitate access to digital infrastructure to be a globally competitive player with a global impact, take the lead in the development and deployment of AI, foster talent and create an ecosystem of excellence and trust.
    The Council of the EU thus agrees with the assessment of the European Court of Auditors in its report last May on Europe's AI ambitions.
    The conclusions adopted by the 27 also highlight that the environmental impact of AI systems, high-performance computing and possible solutions to increase energy efficiency, as well as ensuring a reliable hardware supply chain, are important factors that should be taken into account in sector policies.
    The Council further agrees with the Court that close cooperation with Member States and international organisations, to maximise the impact of investments at national and EU level, is a key element to ensure the EU's global leadership in AI and its positioning as a reference point for AI governance.
    In this regard, the Council invites the Commission to step up regular exchange of information with the Council and its relevant preparatory bodies to support the EU's strategic engagement in international fora and cooperation with partners.
    Finally, understanding that AI can strengthen European competitiveness if the results of research and innovation (R&I) projects are directly or indirectly commercialised or exploited, the Council agrees with the Court on the need for measurable objectives and performance indicators.
    The Council adds, however, that such indicators should be carefully designed without hindering the overall objective of the projects, so as not to add additional burdens to beneficiaries, Member States and implementing bodies. (ANSA).