The Scottish Government has joined the Disruptive and Emerging
Technology Alliance, partnering with representatives from 17
nations to maximise the benefits of new technology – such as AI,
cybersecurity and space - while protecting human rights and
democracy.
Business Minister will today (Wednesday 06
November 2024) address the first Ministerial Summit of the
Alliance in Barcelona and showcase Scotland's strengths in
dynamic sectors such as space and renewable energy. He will also
participate in discussions about potentially joining the European
Space Agency's Zero Debris Charter, which aims to protect
essential satellites by eradicating harmful space debris.
Mr Lochhead said:
“I am proud that the Scottish Government has joined forces with
representatives from 17 other nations to discuss deploying new
technology to maximise growth and improve our public services.
“By coming together, we can harness the transformative potential
of new technologies, such as AI, while ensuring that threats are
minimised and human rights protected.
“Scotland is already a world leader in important new markets. We
have ambitions to further expand the space sector, which already
has more than 200 companies operating in Scotland, and our
critical technologies supercluster currently has more than 140
companies generating £3.6 billion for the Scottish economy.
“Working with the world's most exciting tech economies, we will
seek to identify further opportunities for growth and secure new
investment.
“I couldn't come to Barcelona without expressing my deep sadness
at the tragic flooding Spain is experiencing. I extend my deepest
sympathies to all those affected.”
Background
The Alliance brings
together 17 city, regional and devolved governments representing
some of the world's leading tech hubs, including Massachusetts,
Quebec, the Welsh Government and Gyeonggi-do, a provincial
government in South Korea, as well as other European partners
from France, Belgium and the Netherlands.
The Alliance aims to help member governments maximise the
benefits of new technology and to provide ideas for how best to
harness emergent technology to improve public services and gain
influence in global debates.
