Russia Joins Forces with BRICS to Form AI Alliance, Putin Announces
Russia collaborates with BRICS and other countries to form the AI Alliance Network. Western sanctions pose challenges to Russia's AI ambitions by limiting access to essential technologies. Russia aims to significantly boost its GDP through AI technology implementation by 2030.
Putin made this announcement at Russia's premier AI conference, unveiling the creation of the AI Alliance Network. This network will bring together national associations and development institutions from BRICS countries and other interested states to collectively propel AI innovation.
Putin emphasised the importance of Russia's involvement in the global AI race on an equal footing, highlighting the cutting-edge solutions that Russian scientists are currently developing. He extended an invitation to scientists worldwide to join forces in this collaborative effort. However, Western sanctions aimed at limiting Russia's access to essential technologies have posed challenges, with major microchip producers halting exports to Russia, particularly impacting its AI aspirations.
Leading the charge in AI development within Russia is the prominent lender Sberbank. Despite this, Sberbank CEO German Gref acknowledged the difficulty in replacing graphics processing units (GPUs), crucial microchips for AI development. The AI Alliance Network has already seen participation from national AI associations of BRICS members Brazil, China, India, and South Africa, as well as from Serbia, Indonesia, and other non-BRICS countries. This collaboration aims to foster joint research in technology and AI regulation, as well as create opportunities for AI product distribution in member countries' markets.
Russia's ambition to compete with global powers in the AI race is evident, with the United States and China currently leading in AI capabilities. President-elect Donald Trump's appointment of a "White House AI and Crypto Czar" underscores the US's commitment to maintaining its technological superiority. However, Putin's alignment with China could potentially shift the dynamics of the AI competition. Russia is among the ten countries, including the US, China, Britain, and Israel, actively developing generative AI models, positioning itself as a significant player in the field.
The implementation of AI technologies across various sectors is projected to contribute significantly to Russia's gross domestic product, with an estimated increase from 0.2 trillion roubles (US$1.9 billion) in 2023 to 11.2 trillion roubles (US$109 billion) by 2030. Russia's AI strategy aims for 80% of its workforce to possess AI skills by 2030, a substantial increase from 5% in 2023, alongside a seven-fold growth in AI investment to 850 billion roubles. Sberbank and technology leader Yandex currently dominate Russia's domestic AI market with their respective AI models.
Despite these efforts, Russia ranks 31st out of 83 countries in AI implementation, innovation, and investment, trailing behind not only the US and China but also fellow BRICS members India and Brazil. Stanford University's AI vibrancy tool positions Russia at 29th place among 36 countries evaluated based on various AI indicators. This collaboration with BRICS and other nations signifies Russia's commitment to advancing its AI capabilities on the global stage.
Russia collaborates with BRICS and other countries to form the AI Alliance Network.
Western sanctions pose challenges to Russia's AI ambitions by limiting access to essential technologies.
Russia aims to significantly boost its GDP through AI technology implementation by 2030.
Source: REUTERS