Russia: Putin Orders Government, National Bank to Cooperate with China on AI
The Facts
Pres. Vladimir Putin has reportedly ordered the Russian government, along with Russia's PJSC Sberbank, to collaborate with China "in conducting technological research and development" in the field of artificial intelligence.
The development came in the form of instructions published on the Kremlin web portal on New Year's Day, which also declared that Sberbank is leading Russia's AI development efforts. This comes three weeks after Russia announced its collaboration with BRICS in AI development.
The Spin
Pro-Russia narrative
Russia and China’s strategic collaboration in artificial intelligence reflects a pragmatic counterbalance to the West’s dominance. By pooling their resources, the two nations aim to secure technological parity while bolstering geopolitical ties. Western efforts to criticize or intervene will only deepen this partnership, as mutual interests drive innovation across sectors.
Anti-Russia narrative
Russia-China collaboration on AI has the potential to destabilize the world. It would reinforce oppressive regimes, counter Western influence, and fuel global instability. Moscow’s reliance on Beijing underscores the risks of authoritarian alignment in shaping the technology — efforts to counter this partnership are key to safeguarding the world order and upholding democratic values.
