AI4COPSEC was featured among the key contributions at the Kick-off Meeting of the European project BlueGovAI – Enhancing Cross-Border Governance through AI for a Sustainable Blue Economy, held on 16–17 March between Ancona and Jesi, Italy.
The event, coordinated by Cooperativa Sociale Odòs as Lead Partner under the Interreg Italy–Croatia 2021–2027 Programme, brought together institutional representatives, research organisations, and project partners to launch a collaborative initiative aimed at strengthening cross-border governance through artificial intelligence.
From the AI4COPSEC perspective, the meeting represented an important opportunity to position advanced AI-driven solutions within the broader discussion on maritime governance and sustainability. During the thematic session in Ancona, Roberto Pierdicca (Università Politecnica delle Marche – UNIVPM) delivered a presentation titled“Artificial Intelligence for the Sea”, highlighting how AI technologies developed within AI4COPSEC can support monitoring, security, and decision-making processes in maritime environments.
The intervention emphasized the relevance of AI-based tools in addressing complex cross-border challenges, particularly in enhancing situational awareness, improving data-driven governance, and supporting authorities in managing coastal and maritime ecosystems more effectively.
AI4COPSEC’s participation aligns closely with the objectives of BlueGovAI, which include fostering cooperation between Italy and Croatia, promoting sustainable blue economy practices, and integrating innovative digital solutions into public decision-making. The exchange with institutional stakeholders such as the Municipality of Ancona, the Guardia di Finanza, and the Port Authority further reinforced the importance of bridging research and operational needs.
Overall, the Kick-off Meeting confirmed the growing role of artificial intelligence as a key enabler for sustainable and cooperative governance of marine and coastal areas, with AI4COPSEC contributing its expertise to this evolving European landscape.
