US-based social networking giant Facebook has announced plans to create 10,000 new highly skilled jobs within the EU by 2026.

The new hires will play a key role in building the metaverse, an online platform where users can interact using virtual and augmented reality. In a press release, Facebook commented that: “No one company will own and operate the metaverse. Like the internet, its key feature will be its openness and interoperability.” The company also stated that it will collaborate and cooperate with companies, developers, creators and policymakers to bring the metaverse to life.

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Facebook’s decision reaffirms its commitment to the European tech industry. The company cited various reasons for investing in the EU including the large consumer market, first-class universities and, most importantly, access to top-quality talent.

Facebook will work with governments across the EU to find the right staff and markets to invest in. The company’s initial priority will be hiring highly specialised engineers.