The 21st IFIP International Conference on Artificial Intelligence Applications and Innovations (AIAI 2025) was successfully held from 26-29 June 2025 in Limassol, Cyprus, under the auspices of the Technical University of Cyprus and supported by IFIP TC12 and WG 12.5. This prestigious event reaffirmed AIAI’s role as a leading European forum for showcasing cutting-edge developments in Artificial Intelligence (AI) across multiple disciplines.

With over 300 paper submissions from researchers worldwide, the conference demonstrated the field’s vitality and global relevance. A rigorous peer-review process led to the selection of 123 full papers and seven short papers, reflecting both the depth and breadth of current AI research. The conference covered a diverse range of topics including machine learning, data science, ethics in AI, edge computing, healthcare AI and sustainability technologies.

AIAI 2025 hosted five specialised workshops, notably the 14th Mining Humanistic Data Workshop (MHDW), 10th B5G–Putting Intelligence to the Network Edge, and the 1st SilverTech Workshop, highlighting the conference’s commitment to interdisciplinary and applied AI research.

Keynote presentations were delivered by globally renowned experts:

  • Prof. Marios M. Polycarpou explored resilience in cyber-physical systems;
  • Prof. Massimo Mecella discussed the use of LLMs in smart information systems;
  • Prof. Marco Gori offered a thought-provoking perspective on the future of AI beyond the cloud; and
  • Prof. John Soldatos traced the evolution of LLMs into proactive, autonomous agents.

The event also addressed pressing issues such as AI ethics, fairness, bias and privacy, encouraging dialogue around the responsible design and deployment of intelligent systems. As emphasised in the conference’s preface, the aim was not only technological progress but also the establishment of ethical and legislative frameworks for the evolving AI landscape.

The scenic backdrop of Limassol, with its blend of ancient history and modern energy, offered an ideal setting for networking and cultural exchange. Social events, such as a seaside welcome reception, a Gala Dinner with traditional Cypriot Cuisine and a guided tour of the Kourion archaeological site, added a local flavour to the conference experience.

As AIAI concluded its 21st edition, it reaffirmed its mission to foster innovation and critical discourse in AI, paving the way for its next chapter in 2026 in the lovely city of Chania in Crete (https://ifipaiai.org/2026/).

Ilias Maglogiannis Chair IFIP WG 12.5 AI Applications