Russian President Vladimir Putin has tasked the government and Sberbank, Russia’s largest financial institution, with expanding partnerships with China to advance artificial intelligence (AI) technologies. The announcement, published on January 1, 2025, follows earlier statements about increasing cooperation with BRICS nations and other countries to enhance AI capabilities.
This directive comes as Russia faces challenges in accessing critical technologies due to Western sanctions. These sanctions, imposed in response to Russia’s military actions, have restricted imports of key components like microchips, which are essential for developing AI systems. As a result, Moscow has sought to build alliances with countries outside the Western bloc to continue its technological advancements.
Sberbank, already leading Russia’s AI efforts, will collaborate closely with Chinese entities to develop AI-focused research and innovation. This partnership reflects an effort to bypass restrictions and build expertise in a field that is increasingly shaping global economic and security dynamics.
In December 2024, Putin announced the establishment of an AI Alliance Network. This initiative aims to unite specialists and organizations from BRICS nations—Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa—as well as other interested states. The goal is to foster shared learning and accelerate the development of cutting-edge AI technologies. According to Sberbank, multiple BRICS countries have joined the network, signaling mutual interest in technological collaboration.
Despite these efforts, Russia faces obstacles in establishing itself as a leader in AI. It currently ranks 31st out of 83 countries on the Global AI Index, which assesses innovation, investment, and implementation. This places Russia behind other BRICS nations such as India and Brazil, as well as global frontrunners like the United States and China.
China’s role in this partnership is critical. Beijing has positioned itself as a leader in AI development, and its expertise offers valuable support for Russia. Although China has avoided direct involvement in Russia’s military actions, the two countries have strengthened ties across various sectors. On New Year’s Eve, Chinese President Xi Jinping emphasized the growing cooperation between the two nations during an exchange of greetings with Putin.
By working with China, Russia hopes to address its technological gaps and maintain competitiveness in the rapidly evolving AI landscape. This partnership reflects Moscow’s strategy of forging alliances with non-Western countries to reduce dependency on Western technology and navigate restrictions.
As global competition in AI intensifies, Russia’s efforts to align with China and other BRICS nations could shape its future in this field. While challenges remain, these partnerships underline Russia’s determination to continue advancing in an area that is critical for modern innovation and economic growth.
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