EU TECH CHIEF PUSHES AI RULES, TECH SOVEREIGNTY

Virkkunen discussed the EU's approach to AI governance, emphasizing the bloc's effort to establish regulatory frameworks while maintaining competitiveness. She addressed cybersecurity concerns and Europe's need to strengthen technological sovereignty—a priority amid growing geopolitical tensions and supply chain vulnerabilities. The EU official stressed the importance of reducing reliance on technology providers outside Europe, particularly in critical sectors. This reflects Brussels' broader push for digital autonomy and reducing strategic dependencies on US and Chinese companies. The conversation touched on balancing innovation with regulation, a key challenge as the EU implements its AI Act. Virkkunen's remarks signal Europe's commitment to developing homegrown tech capabilities while establishing guardrails for emerging technologies. The interview took place Wednesday, June 17, at VivaTech, Europe's largest tech conference.