EU-US Trade and Technology Council: Strengthening Transatlantic Cooperation in Digital Transformation and Trade
The European Union (EU) and the United States (US) have long been strategic partners committed to fostering digital transformation and developing innovative technologies grounded in shared democratic values, especially the respect for human rights. Central to this collaboration is the EU-US Trade and Technology Council (TTC), a forum established during the EU-US Summit held in Brussels on June 15, 2021. The TTC aims to coordinate approaches on critical global issues related to trade, economics, and technology while enhancing transatlantic commercial and economic relations based on mutual democratic principles.
Objectives of the EU-US Trade and Technology Council
The Council focuses on advancing cooperation in several key areas to ensure that trade and technology serve societies and economies in alignment with common values. Its primary goals include:
- Leveraging trade and technology to benefit societies and economies under shared democratic values.
- Enhancing leadership in technological and industrial innovation.
- Expanding bilateral trade and investment opportunities.
Sixth Ministerial Meeting in Leuven, Belgium – April 4-5, 2024
The sixth ministerial meeting of the EU-US Trade and Technology Council took place in Leuven, Belgium, on April 4 and 5, 2024. During this meeting, representatives from both sides reinforced their commitment to deepening transatlantic ties and agreed on concrete measures across several strategic areas:
1. Advancing Cooperation in Artificial Intelligence, 6G, and Emerging Technologies
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Artificial Intelligence (AI): Both the EU and US reaffirmed their dedication to a risk-based approach to AI development. They emphasized supporting safe and trustworthy AI technologies capable of addressing global challenges. The meeting also announced new dialogues between the European AI Office and the US AI Security Institute to strengthen cooperation.
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6G Technology: The Council adopted a joint vision outlining guiding principles for 6G technology. Furthermore, an administrative agreement was signed to facilitate collaborative research efforts in this next-generation telecommunications field.
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Semiconductors: Two existing administrative agreements that support resilient semiconductor supply chains were extended for an additional three years, aiming to ensure stability and security in this critical industry.
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Emerging Technology Standards: A situational report on digital identity was presented, exploring opportunities for interoperable and cross-border use of digital identities between the EU and US.
2. Promoting Easier, More Sustainable, and Secure Transatlantic Trade
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Sustainable Trade: The importance of the Transatlantic Trade and Sustainable Development Initiative was underscored, with plans to publish a joint catalog of best practices for green public procurement. This aims to accelerate sustainable projects supported by public funding.
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Simplifying Trade Procedures: Agreements were put in place to facilitate the use of digital tools in trade, including the harmonization of technical standards for electronic invoicing systems, enhancing efficiency for businesses.
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Clean Energy Collaboration: Both parties welcomed new recommendations to improve transatlantic compatibility of electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure, promoting cleaner transport solutions.
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Critical Minerals: Progress was noted in negotiations for an agreement that would strengthen supply chains for critical minerals essential for manufacturing batteries used in electric vehicles. The launch of the Partnership Forum for Mineral Security was also positively received.
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Economic Security: Shared concerns were expressed regarding economic coercion and anti-competitive practices employed by certain third countries. The EU and US committed to continuing efforts to diversify trade and investment relationships and to facilitate secure trade in high-tech goods.
3. Upholding Human Rights and Democratic Values in a Changing Geopolitical Digital Environment
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Gender-Based Violence: The Council developed a set of common principles addressing gender-based violence on online platforms to create safer digital environments.
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Democracy and Human Rights: The partners reaffirmed their support for democracies worldwide and their commitment to combating misinformation and foreign interference. Joint recommended actions were published for online platforms to protect human rights defenders on the internet.
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Data Access: A mutual commitment was made to facilitate access to data from online platforms, promoting transparency and cooperation while respecting privacy and security.
Looking Ahead
The EU-US Trade and Technology Council continues to serve as a pivotal platform for bilateral cooperation, shaping the future of global trade, technology development, and digital governance. Through sustained collaboration and shared responsibility, the EU and US aim to uphold democratic values while driving innovation, ensuring security, and promoting sustainable economic growth.
For more information on the EU-US Trade and Technology Council and its latest activities, please visit the European Commission website.
