LOC15:13
12:13 GMT
BRUSSELS, April 30 (KUNA) -- Microsoft President Brad Smith stated on Wednesday that the company is prepared to go to court to defend its contractual obligations regarding the protection of European digital data.
Speaking at an event hosted by the Atlantic Council in Brussels, Smith reiterated Microsoft's commitment to safeguarding customer data in the EU, adding that the company would challenge any government request for access to public sector or EU enterprise customer data if it has legal grounds to do so.
He emphasized that Microsoft aims to be a voice of reason amid rising geopolitical tensions and reiterated the company's respect for European laws.
"We understand that European laws apply to our business practices in Europe, just as local laws apply to local practices in the United States and similar laws apply elsewhere in the world. This includes European competition law and the Digital Markets Act, among others," he said.
Smith's remarks contrast with those of other major US tech companies such as Meta and X, which have criticized EU digital regulations as barriers to innovation.
His comments follow the European Commission's decision last week to fine Apple and Meta a combined USD 799 million for violating digital competition rules. (end)
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