The White House is reportedly looking into the potential security implications posed by Chinese investments in artificial intelligence (AI) in the Middle East, amid concerns that the nation’s tech giants could gain access to sensitive data or military systems in the region.
Chinese companies such as Alibaba, Tencent and Baidu have been ramping up their investments in the Middle East AI sector, particularly in Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates and Egypt. However, the US is reportedly worried that some of the investments could allow the tech giants to gain access to sensitive data and military systems, which could threaten Western interests.
In response to those concerns, the White House is reportedly exploring ways to mitigate the potential security threats, such as drafting additional regulations for US companies. It is also working with other countries in the region to ensure they are aware of the risks as well.
The White House is also reportedly looking to put in place “high-level dialogues” with Chinese tech firms in the region to ensure that they are operating in a responsible and transparent manner. These dialogues would likely include discussions about these companies’ activities, how they plan to use AI technology, and safeguards they are taking to ensure their activities do not threaten national security.
At the same time, the US is reportedly encouraging Chinese tech firms to be more proactive in disclosing their investments and activities in the Middle East region. This is in part due to the fact that there is a growing distrust of Chinese technology in the region, with not only the US but other nations such as India and Japan also expressing their own concerns.
