Estonia’s AI Vision: Insights from Ott Velsberg at AI Everything GLOBAL 2025
Abu Dhabi, UAE – AI Everything GLOBAL 2025, one of the world’s premier artificial intelligence conferences, brought together global leaders, policymakers, and industry pioneers to discuss the future of AI on a global scale. Among the notable speakers was Ott Velsberg, Chief Data Officer at the Ministry of Justice & IT in the Estonian Government, who shared valuable insights into Estonia’s approach to AI governance and innovation.
The Role of Governments in AI Development
During a panel discussion at AI Everything GLOBAL 2025, Velsberg addressed the pressing question: Should governments invest in AI, and how should they balance collaboration with the private sector?
Velsberg emphasized that Estonia has always been a pioneer in embracing digital transformation and AI-driven governance. He stressed that governments should lead by example, ensuring robust collaboration with international partners, including both the private sector and other nations.
“We strongly focus on implementation, working with both local and international stakeholders to build a thriving AI ecosystem. This means ensuring that companies can easily comply with EU regulations while receiving government support from ideation to implementation,” he said.
DeepSeek and Global AI Regulations
One of the key topics discussed was DeepSeek, a growing player in the AI landscape. When asked about potential collaborations with DeepSeek and other AI firms, Velsberg highlighted Estonia’s commitment to regulatory compliance.
“If DeepSeek aligns with EU regulations, we are open to exploring partnerships. However, our approach remains consistent across all AI enterprises—we facilitate an environment where companies can thrive by providing technical, regulatory, and sandbox support,” he noted.
Estonia and UAE: A Growing AI Partnership
Estonia and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) have developed a strong partnership over the years, particularly in the realm of AI, digital governance, and innovation.
“This collaboration has been ongoing for a long time, with both countries sharing best practices and experiences. It is a fruitful partnership that continues to evolve, offering new opportunities for AI-driven governance and technological advancements,” Velsberg stated.
The Future of AI: Digital Twins and Personalized AI Assistants
When asked about his personal excitement for AI’s future, Velsberg highlighted Estonia’s focus on digital twin technology.
“We envision a future where AI-powered digital twins assist citizens in their daily lives—whether in healthcare, education, or lifelong learning. The goal is to create AI solutions that deliver real benefits to people, ensuring technology serves everyone at a personal level,” he explained.
Conclusion
AI Everything GLOBAL 2025 showcased how nations like Estonia are shaping the future of AI governance. With its strong focus on collaboration, regulatory support, and digital innovation, Estonia continues to set an example for governments worldwide. As AI development accelerates, Estonia’s vision for a citizen-centric AI ecosystem could pave the way for a more inclusive and intelligent future.
Stay tuned for more Breaking AI News from AI Everything GLOBAL 2025 as we bring you the latest developments in artificial intelligence and emerging technologies.
