Brdo pri Kranju - Creating a legal framework for artificial intelligence (AI) and ensuring effective oversight is at the centre of debates on the first day of a high-level conference on AI which is held as part of Slovenia's EU presidency at Brdo pri Kranju on Tuesday and Wednesday.

Slovenian Public Administration Minister Boštjan Koritnik highlighted the role of open discussion on AI to understand possible effects of various decisions on AI.

"We're faced with an unknown area and only broad participation in an open debate can take us forward in understanding possible effects various decisions could have on the future," he said at a news conference on Tuesday.

Today's discussions focus on regulating AI and the responsibility of various stakeholders, on efforts to encourage standardisation, and effective oversight.

Stressing the EU was the first in the world to address AI regulation, Koritnik said the ongoing conference was the first formal event discussing a set of proposed measures on AI the European Commission adopted in April.

The set features proposals and guidelines to develop and regulate ethical and trustworthy AI in Europe in a way that puts humans at the centre, said Koritnik.

Zoran Stančič, an advisor on digital content to the Commission, said the Commission proposes using the programmes Horizon Europe and Digital Europe to support projects which focus on AI research and funding.

New public-private partnerships in AI, data and robotics are being considered, while institutions already engaged in AI would be strengthened and innovation hubs set up.

Stančič believes the conference is an excellent opportunity to exchange views, which should facilitate taking good decisions more easily during Slovenia's EU presidency.

The conference From Ambition to Action features delegations from all EU countries, representatives of third countries and international organisations, the academia, civil society and business.

With AI one of the priorities of the Slovenian presidency, the idea is to encourage debate on its regulation and support for its development in a sustainable manner, said Koritnik.

On Wednesday, the focus will be on innovation funding, green AI and education about new technologies.