U.S. AI chip exclusion leaves Baltic states worried
The Baltic States - Latvia, Estonia, and Lithuania - have expressed their concerns over the US administration's decision to exclude them from the Artificial Intelligence (AI) diffusion framework. In a joint statement released on January 17, 2025, the countries expressed their worry that this exclusion could undermine transatlantic unity and cooperation on AI development and governance.
The joint statement, available at this link, does not provide detailed explanations or reasons for their concerns. However, it can be inferred that the Baltic states view the selective inclusion of countries in the framework as a potential obstacle to establishing cohesive international AI norms.
The US approach to AI governance, which focuses more on deregulation and infrastructure support, contrasts with the EU's comprehensive AI regulatory regime. This difference could contribute to the tension between the US policy approaches and allied European states’ preferences for broader, harmonized AI governance.
The Baltic states emphasize the importance of inclusive cooperation among like-minded democracies to counter global AI challenges and maintain a united front in setting norms. They fear that the fragmented governance framework could weaken joint efforts to promote trustworthy AI and may create fragmentation between allied nations in addressing AI risks and standards.
The joint statement does not mention any potential consequences if their concerns are not addressed. However, it does indicate that the exclusion could potentially create artificial divisions within the EU Single Market. The Baltic states also believe that the US administration's decision could undermine the development of their national AI ecosystems.
Despite their concerns, the Baltic States have stated their readiness to work with the European Commission and the US administration to address their issues. They are prepared to collaborate to ensure unity and cooperation crucial for safeguarding democratic values in emerging AI technologies.
It remains unclear which countries, apart from the Baltic States, were excluded from the mentioned part of the US Framework for the Artificial Intelligence Diffusion. Additionally, the joint statement does not indicate whether the Baltic States intend to take any further actions in response to the US administration's decision.
