AMSTERDAM, Jan 9 (Reuters) - The Dutch government said

on Thursday it had reached a deal with Nvidia ( NVDA ) for the

supply of hardware and technological knowledge for a possible

artificial intelligence (AI) facility.

The Netherlands aims to build a facility where an AI

'supercomputer' can contribute to research and development, as

part of broader EU projects to strengthen Europe's digital

economy.

Last year the Dutch government set aside 204.5 million euros

($210 million) for investments in AI, while it also aims to use

European subsidies.

Economy minister Dirk Beljaarts said chances of realizing

the project were increased significantly through the agreement

with Nvidia ( NVDA ), without giving specific details.

"Competition is fierce, the whole world is after this

technology," the minister said after a meeting with Nvidia ( NVDA ) in

Silicon Valley.

"This deal brings building a Dutch AI facility a lot

closer."

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