Launched in Brussels on 9 October 2026, API-Net connects experts from 28 European countries to advance the next generation of intelligent robotics. Arjun Chaliyath, Robotics and AI Business Developer at FARI, represents Belgium on its Management Committee and will lead its working group on ethics, trust and policy alignment. 

Imagine a robot that can observe its surroundings, decide what to do next and carry out tasks without being guided at every step. This is an example of agentic and embodied AI: artificial intelligence that can make decisions and take action in the physical world. As these technologies develop, they bring exciting possibilities, but also important questions: how can we ensure these systems are safe, trustworthy and used responsibly? 

To address these questions collectively, API-Net (Agentic Physical AI) was launched at the COST Association’s offices in Brussels on 9 October 2026. Supported through COST – European Cooperation in Science and Technology, this four-year network brings together research, innovation and practice across Europe. It connects expertise in AI, robotics, cognitive systems and human–machine interaction to encourage knowledge exchange, training and policy dialogue around safe and trustworthy physical AI. 

FARI’s contribution: connecting robotics, ethics and policy

As Belgium’s representative on API-Net’s Management Committee, Arjun Chaliyath will also lead Working Group 3 on Ethics, Trust and Policy Alignment. The group will explore the societal and regulatory implications of increasingly autonomous systems, and contribute to discussions on their responsible development and governance in Europe. 

Through Arjun’s involvement, FARI contributes expertise from its work at the intersection of AI, robotics and societal impact. The participation reflects the institute’s commitment to connecting technological innovation with the public interest, particularly as autonomous systems move closer to real-world applications. 

Take part in API-Net

API-Net’s working groups are open to new contributors. Researchers, innovators and practitioners interested in helping shape responsible agentic and embodied AI can explore the network and apply to join a working group. 

FURTHER READING  First Management Committee meeting   |   About COST Actions