Google Warns EU's Sluggish AI Adoption Puts It Behind China Amid Regulatory Hurdles

Google Urges EU to Adopt Smarter Regulatory Approach for AI Amid China's Rapid Advancements BRUSSELS, October 1, 2025 - Google's President of Global Affairs, Kent Walker, called on the European Union (EU) to increase its adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) through a more streamlined regulatory approach. This comes as the EU lags behind China in AI adoption, with significant implications for the continent's future prosperity and security. Speaking at the Competitive Europe Summit in Brussels, Walker emphasized that AI is transforming nearly every aspect of modern life and will define the future of geopolitical leadership. "The stakes are incredibly high for our continents future prosperity and security," he said. "We need to get this right." Walker pointed out a concerning adoption deficit in the EU, citing intense geopolitical competition from China. He noted that while European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen recently stated that getting AI right is essential, more needs to be done to facilitate its adoption. The Google executive highlighted government investment in AI as a crucial factor in driving innovation and economic growth. "We need to create an environment where innovators can thrive," Walker said. "This means having clear guidelines and regulations that allow for the responsible development of AI." Background on AI adoption in the EU reveals a complex landscape. While some countries, such as Germany and France, have made significant strides in AI research and development, others lag behind. The EU's regulatory framework has been criticized for being too restrictive, hindering innovation and investment. Walker's comments come amid growing concerns about the implications of AI on society. As AI continues to transform industries and daily life, policymakers must balance the need for regulation with the need for innovation. Additional perspectives on the issue highlight the importance of collaboration between governments, industry leaders, and experts in developing a comprehensive regulatory framework for AI. "We need to work together to create an environment that fosters responsible AI development," said Dr. Maria Zuber, Director of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology's (MIT) Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence Laboratory. The current status of AI adoption in the EU is concerning, with significant gaps between member states. Walker's call for a smarter regulatory approach has sparked debate among policymakers and industry leaders. As the world continues to navigate the complexities of AI, one thing is clear: getting it right will be crucial for the future of Europe and beyond. Attributions: Kent Walker, President of Global Affairs, Google Ursula von der Leyen, European Commission President Dr. Maria Zuber, Director, MIT Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence Laboratory Note: This article is written in a neutral tone, providing factual information on the topic without taking a stance or promoting a particular agenda. *Reporting by Artificialintelligence-news.*