President Vladimir Putin announced the creation of a new AI Alliance Network at Russia’s flagship AI conference in Moscow on Wednesday. Russia teams up with BRICS to create an AI alliance, aiming to boost global collaboration in artificial intelligence development. This initiative aims to unite AI associations and development institutions from BRICS countries (Brazil, China, India, and South Africa) along with other nations, such as Serbia and Indonesia. The goal is to foster collaboration in AI research, regulation, and market expansion, with a focus on challenging the dominance of the United States and China in AI development.
Putin emphasized that Russia must play a significant role in the global race for advanced artificial intelligence. He stated that Russian scientists are already working on cutting-edge AI solutions. Putin extended an invitation to researchers worldwide to join the collaboration, aiming to build a robust and globally competitive AI industry in Russia.
Despite facing significant challenges due to Western sanctions, which have restricted Russia’s access to key technologies like microchips, the Russian government remains focused on developing AI as a key sector for economic growth. Sanctions have hindered Russia’s ability to procure critical graphics processing units (GPUs) required for AI development, but domestic companies like Sberbank and Yandex are leading the charge with their AI innovations.
Russia’s AI Vision for the Future
According to Russia’s AI strategy, the country projects AI’s potential to contribute 11.2 trillion roubles (approximately $109 billion) to its GDP by 2030, a significant increase from just 0.2 trillion roubles ($1.9 billion) in 2023. The strategy also includes plans to equip 80% of the Russian workforce with AI skills by 2030, a sharp rise from the current 5%. Furthermore, the country aims to boost AI investments seven-fold to 850 billion roubles.
While Russia’s AI ambitions are ambitious, the country lags behind global leaders. According to the Global AI Index by Tortoise Media, Russia ranks 31st among 83 countries in AI innovation, falling behind the U.S., China, and even BRICS partners like India and Brazil. Russia’s technological advancements are also hindered by geopolitical barriers and a lack of access to crucial microchips and other hardware.
Russia teams up with BRICS to create an AI alliance to compete with global AI leaders, particularly the U.S. and China. In comparison, the U.S. and China continue to dominate the AI sector. The U.S. recently appointed an “AI and Crypto Czar” to maintain its global leadership in technology. Meanwhile, China has become a major player in the AI field with its massive investments in research and development. Thus, despite having advanced scientific research and the development of AI models like Sberbank’s GigaChat and Yandex’s YandexGPT, Russia’s technological growth is limited by the significant sanctions imposed by Western nations.
The Future of the AI Alliance Network
Russia teams up with BRICS to create an AI alliance, focusing on sharing technological advancements and research in AI. The AI Alliance Network is expected to provide a platform for joint research and regulatory collaboration, helping member nations create a unified approach to AI development. The network also aims to expand markets for AI products across member countries, facilitating global partnerships.
While the new initiative may alter the dynamics of the AI race, experts remain cautious. Russia’s ability to overcome technological and geopolitical challenges remains uncertain, and its position in the global AI landscape is still far from rivaling that of the U.S. or China. Nevertheless, the AI Alliance Network represents a significant step for Russia in its quest to become a leading force in AI innovation.
Also Read: ChatGPT Partners with Apple for iOS 18.2: Revolutionizing Mobile AI.
