Spain is working on creating a significant large language model trained in Spanish and the co-official languages spoken in its autonomous communities.
Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez announced this initiative just before the Mobile World Congress 2024 in Barcelona from Monday 26 to Thursday 29 February. The large language model will be open source and transparent.
A large language model (LLM) is an AI algorithm that uses learning techniques and vast datasets to grasp, summarize, generate, and prompt new content. Generative AI is closely related to LLMs and focuses on creating text-based content.
Collaboration Across Sectors
While platforms like Google Gemini support over 40 languages globally, their advanced features are currently only available in English. The Spanish project aims to serve local needs and support national initiatives in educating its citizens and workforce in AI development.
The Spanish LLM project aims to provide a public and accessible language infrastructure for companies to develop advanced applications like intelligent assistants, conversational systems, and content generation models for economic purposes.
To achieve its goals, the Spanish government has established a collaborative body involving public and private entities such as the Barcelona Supercomputing Center, the Spanish Supercomputing Network, the Spanish Academy of Language (RAE), and the Association of Spanish Language Academies.
This collaboration also plans to extend the program to Spanish-speaking communities in the Americas.
The widespread use of the Spanish language model is expected to encourage both Spanish and non-Spanish businesses to enhance their digital services and introduce new offerings.
PM Sanchez emphasized the importance of safeguarding rights and freedoms in light of the growth and impact of generative AI. He also discussed implications for the labor market and public policy, affirming Spain’s readiness to contribute to the global effort in embracing AI sustainability.
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