Written by Vasco Guedes Ferreira.
In an era marked by rapid technological change and geopolitical uncertainty, the European Parliament’s STOA Panel recently hosted the 8th STOA-STS Forum Conference on EU-Japan Cooperation in Artificial Intelligence and Quantum Technologies. The event, held in Brussels and co-organised with the Japanese STS forum, brought together policymakers, researchers, and industry leaders to discuss how the European Union and Japan can strengthen ties in these critical areas.
The conference emphasised a shared commitment: promoting democratic values, transparency, and human-centric innovation in the digital world. It also reinforced a timely message – like-minded democracies must work more closely together to ensure technologies such as AI and quantum computing develop in ways that benefit society, not harm it.
A longstanding partnership with new opportunities
The event opened with remarks from Christian Ehler (EPP, Germany), highlighting the deep and enduring cooperation between the EU and Japan, even through challenges like the COVID‑19 pandemic. Both regions are now working towards Japan’s association with Horizon Europe, the EU’s flagship research and innovation programme. If successful, this would open unprecedented opportunities for joint projects in AI, quantum technologies, and beyond.
Japan’s Ambassador to the EU, Katsutoshi Aikawa, stressed the importance of rule-based governance of emerging technologies. He pointed to the Hiroshima AI Process launched at the G7, aiming to guide the safe development of generative AI, while praising the EU’s leadership with its AI Act—the world’s first comprehensive AI legislation.
Human-centric innovation as a common ground
Speakers consistently underlined that cooperation should be based not only on economic interests but also on shared democratic values. Both the EU and Japan emphasise a human-centric approach to AI, ensuring that innovation respects fundamental rights and societal wellbeing. Eszter Lakos (EPP, Hungary) noted that this alignment is vital in a world where AI development is sometimes driven by purely economic or authoritarian motives.
Key initiatives discussed included the EU-Japan Digital Partnership launched in 2022, targeting fields such as 5G, semiconductors, and quantum technology, wherethe European Commission Directorate General for Communications Networks, Content and Technology takes the lead for the EU.
Challenges ahead: Governance, competition and trust
While optimism dominated the discussion, participants acknowledged the challenges. Different regulatory approaches in the United States, China, and the EU create a fragmented landscape. Both EU and Japanese representatives stressed the importance of maintaining interoperability, rather than aiming for one-size-fits-all rules.
Lina Galvez (S&D, Spain) identified data ownership, AI literacy and ethical use of both AI and quantum technologies as pressing issues. A key concern is preventing fragmented standards that could hamper market access and investment. Participants called for strengthened dialogue between policymakers, researchers, and citizens.
Building a future together
The workshop demonstrated that EU-Japan cooperation in AI and quantum technologies is not only feasible but also urgently necessary. Together, the partners can lead by example – developing technologies that respect individuals, strengthen societies, and drive sustainable prosperity.
To learn more, visit the event webpage.
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