Russia Enhances AI Collaboration with China Amid Western Sanctions

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President Vladimir Putin has mandated the Russian government and Sberbank, the country’s largest bank, to foster collaboration with China in the field of artificial intelligence (AI). This directive comes in light of Western sanctions that have restricted Russia's access to critical technologies necessary for its military operations and AI development.

Published on the Kremlin's website, the instructions aim to solidify technology exchanges and research cooperation with the People’s Republic of China, particularly as Russia seeks to join forces with BRICS nations in AI initiatives. Putin's call to action follows his announcement of a new AI Alliance Network designed to unify specialists from BRICS countries and other interested nations.

The initiative stems from challenges faced by Russia in sourcing microchips, especially graphics processing units essential for AI, due to sanctions that have halted exports from major Western producers. Sberbank CEO German Gref has noted the difficulty in replacing these components, indicating a clear gap in Russia's technological capabilities compared to the US and China.

According to Tortoise Media’s Global AI Index, Russia currently ranks 31st out of 83 nations regarding AI implementation and investment, lagging significantly behind other major economies.

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