The governments of Egypt and Italy have joined forces to establish an artificial intelligence (AI) center in Cairo, with the aim of positioning Egypt as a leading technology hub in Africa.
Italy’s Minister of Economic Development, Adolfo Urso, revealed during a recent meeting in Cairo that plans for the AI center are underway, with hopes for it to be operational later this year.
“The initiative seeks to enable Egypt to spearhead AI development and applications across the continent while providing training and support to other African nations. Both countries have committed to fostering collaboration between research institutions and private enterprises within their borders,” Africa Business reported.
Mr Urso emphasized the strategic importance of Egypt and Italy’s partnership, highlighting their geographic position at the intersection of Europe, Africa, and Asia.
He expressed confidence that the AI center would establish Egypt as a global hub for this transformative technology.
Italy, under the leadership of Prime Minister Georgia Meloni, has intensified its diplomatic and economic engagements in Africa.
The reports say that the country aims to bolster its relationships in the region through initiatives like the “Mattei Plan,” which focuses on importing natural gas and hydrogen from North Africa while supporting the economies of African countries to reduce migration flows to Europe.
Italy’s investment in Africa’s technological advancement aligns with its efforts to improve infrastructure and skills development on the continent, aiming to enhance access to computing power for AI models and establish strategic partnerships in Africa’s development journey.