Mistral lobbied to soften the EU AI Act while courting Microsoft

February 26, 2024Mistral

While negotiating a partnership with Microsoft, Mistral lobbied to weaken the EU AI Act — arguing the rules should target AI applications rather than foundation-model makers. Watchdog groups credit the campaign, alongside Big Tech and Aleph Alpha, with helping exempt general-purpose AI from key safeguards. Mistral denies lobbying to block regulation.