Chief Scientist for Research, Innovation and Technology, Demetris Skourides outlined Cyprus' progress in promoting AI applications connecting the citizens with the public service. According to a press release issued by the Office of the Chief Scientist Skourides attended a discussion held in Rome on September 19 organised by the Italian Institute of International Affairs (IAI) on the promotion of digital innovation in the Mediterranean. The event was attended by senior officials who shape public policy in the field of information technology from the MED9 countries, as well as MPs and researchers. The discussion explored the possibilities and synergies that could arise in the framework of the Cypriot presidency of MED9 countries (Croatia, Cyprus, France, Greece, Italy, Malta, Portugal, Slovenia and Spain) regarding crucial issues of artificial intelligence and digital confidence. The discussion also touched upon practices that could be adopted from Mediterranean member-states with a view to creating a comm on digital agenda which could contribute in tackling crucial digital issues. On his part, Skourides showcased the initiatives taken by Cyprus towards this end, as well as the progress made by the island through the adoption of AI applications linking the citizens with the public service, the press release said. The ultimate aim, he added, is to simplify and strengthen the service of the citizens in a way which would secure safe access to data they concern them. He also highlighted the importance of open access to open policy infrastructure, stressing the significance of preparing, producing and rollout commercial level infrastructure for research and innovation activities. The public and private sector partnership is even more important in accelerating digitisation in all fields, the application of GDPR and legal requirements in data processing, he went on to say. IAI is considered as the top think tank and coordinator of Think7 for 2024 in the issue of promoting digital innovation in the Mediterranean: the prospect for the public and private sectors. Source: Cyprus News Agency