Ursula von der Leyen backs AI slowdown, invites frontier labs for talks
by@Reuters
Summary
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen announced her support for a slowdown in the development of advanced artificial intelligence (AI) and plans to invite key frontier AI labs for discussions. This initiative aligns with the provisions of the EU's AI Act, which grants European authorities oversight over risk mitigation for advanced AI models. Additionally, von der Leyen emphasized the importance of international cooperation, expressing intentions to work with countries like Canada and the United Kingdom on the evaluation and security of frontier AI models, a response to concerns raised by industry leaders regarding the risks posed by self-improving AI systems.
Analysis
Ursula von der Leyen: Ursula von der Leyen serves as President of the European Commission, leading the EU's executive body and overseeing policy on technology, digital regulation, and international affairs. In her September 16, 2026 State of the Union address, she endorsed industry calls to pace the development of frontier AI models and announced plans to invite leading AI laboratories for discussions on supporting those efforts amid growing safety concerns. Regulation: The EU's AI Act gives European authorities supervisory powers over risk-mitigation measures for the most advanced AI models. Industry Context: Recent statements from AI company leaders have highlighted risks from self-improving models and called for measures to slow the pace of frontier development. International Cooperation: Von der Leyen signaled plans to collaborate with like-minded partners such as Canada and the United Kingdom on frontier AI model evaluation, verification, and security.
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