Global AI Sovereignty Calls for Strategic Partnerships and Interdependence

Cathy Li, head of the Centre for AI Excellence at the World Economic Forum, emphasizes the need for strategic partnerships over isolation in the pursuit of AI sovereignty. At the 2026 Davos economic conference, Li addresses the global race for technological independence, highlighting the importance of interdependence and collaboration.

Geopolitical tensions have made AI sovereignty a top priority for many countries. Li argues that full national AI ownership is neither practical nor sustainable. Instead, she advocates for a model of strategic interdependence, where countries leverage their unique strengths through targeted domestic investment and international partnerships.

Europe as a Model for Cross-Border Collaboration

Li praises Europe's cross-border AI partnerships among member states, advocating for layered cooperation to ensure that everyone can benefit from this powerful technology. Despite the US and China dominating the AI race, tech leaders at Davos see significant opportunities for Europe. Jensen Huang, founder and CEO of Nvidia, describes AI as 'exciting for Europe' due to its strong manufacturing base and potential to 'leapfrog' the software era with robotics.

Challenges and Opportunities for Europe

While Europe has advantages such as exceptional talent, robust regulation, and a stable society, it faces challenges like market fragmentation. Start-ups often find it easier to enter the US market rather than tackle the fragmented EU markets. Li acknowledges these hurdles but remains optimistic about Europe's potential in AI.

The Energy Challenge

One of the major challenges for AI is energy consumption. Data centers, which power AI systems, require massive amounts of electricity. Microsoft’s CEO Satya Nadella declares that energy costs will be a key factor in determining which country wins the AI race. Li sees this as an opportunity to upgrade outdated energy systems, emphasizing the long-term benefits of clean energy for society.

Looking Ahead: The Rapid Advancement of AI

With AI advancing at unprecedented speeds, Li notes that 'a year in our life now becomes 100 years in AI.' This rapid pace underscores the need for strategic planning and collaboration. As AI continues to reshape economies and global positioning, the focus on partnerships and interdependence will be crucial for sustainable and equitable development.

References

• AI sovereignty requires partnerships, not isolation, says World Economic Forum’s AI chief | Euronews