As a professor of innovation for over three decades, I have had the opportunity to observe how strategic decisions by different nations shape their ability to lead in emerging technologies. When comparing Europe to countries like China and India, the contrasts in national policies and approaches to innovation are stark. China has made a long-term, unwavering commitment to deep tech innovation, particularly in artificial intelligence (AI). President Xi Jinping has consistently emphasized the importance of self-sufficiency in technology development. This emphasis is part of a broader national strategy aimed at advancing key areas such as high-end semiconductors, foundational software, and AI. The result has been a robust framework that supports everything from basic research to commercialization. China's education-centric approach has played a crucial role in this success. Over the past two decades, the country has not only increased its investment in STEM education but also fostered an environment where innovation and entrepreneurship thrive. This has led to the emergence of highly competitive AI startups. Companies like DeepSeek and Unitree have developed advanced AI models using less sophisticated hardware, demonstrating resilience in the face of U.S. sanctions. Additionally, China has seamlessly integrated technologies like embedded AI into everyday life, from delivery drones to humanoid robots, showcasing the depth and breadth of its technological advancement. In contrast, India’s innovation strategy has been more market-driven and focused on leveraging existing resources. The country has made significant strides in areas like software development, IT services, and pharmaceuticals. India's approach has often been to build upon its strengths in these industries to foster startups and attract foreign investment. While this has contributed to a vibrant tech ecosystem, the focus on deep tech, particularly in areas like AI and semiconductors, has been somewhat limited compared to China's all-encompassing strategy. Europe, however, faces a different set of challenges and opportunities. Historically, the region has been at the forefront of technological advancements, with strong research institutions and a tradition of innovation. However, Europe's innovation ecosystem is fragmented, with each country often having its own research priorities and funding mechanisms. This fragmentation can hinder the cohesive development of deep tech innovations needed to compete globally. Moreover, Europe has been cautious in its approach to emerging technologies, often prioritizing regulatory frameworks to ensure ethical and safe development. While this is admirable and necessary, it can sometimes slow down the rapid deployment and adoption of new technologies. For instance, while the European Union (EU) has stringent data privacy laws, these regulations can complicate cross-border data sharing and collaboration, which are crucial for AI development. Despite these challenges, there are signs of Europe committing to deep innovation. The EU has launched initiatives such as the Digital Compass, aiming to achieve digital sovereignty and strengthen its position in areas like AI, quantum computing, and 5G. Individual countries like France and Germany have also invested heavily in AI research and development, recognizing the strategic importance of these technologies. However, to truly match the commitment levels of China and India, Europe must adopt a more unified and proactive approach. This would involve aligning national research agendas, increasing public and private investment in deep tech, and fostering greater collaboration among universities, research institutions, and industry. Additionally, creating a regulatory framework that balances safety and innovation could help accelerate Europe's progress in emerging technologies. In conclusion, while Europe has a rich history of innovation and strong institutional frameworks, it needs to overcome fragmentation and adopt a more cohesive, long-term strategy to fully commit to deep tech innovation, as seen in the examples of China and India.