Meeting on the development of artificial intelligence technologies

Before the meeting, the head of state was told about the academic process at School 21 and had a brief conversation with students. The President was informed about the school by Head of Sberbank German Gref and school Principal Svetlana Infimovskaya. The students of the school can study the following areas: Algorithms, Graphics, Mobile Development, Computer Security, Robot Technology, and Artificial Intelligence to name a few. The school has 940 students today. On average, students are expected to study for 2–3.5 years. The course includes two practical training sessions in relevant companies for six months or more. Today I suggest that we discuss concrete steps that will form the foundation for our National Strategy on the development of artificial intelligence technologies. We have repeatedly spoken about the need for such a comprehensive document. I also mentioned it in this year's Address to the Federal Assembly. This is indeed one of the key areas of technological development that determines and will continue to determine the future of the entire world. The artificial intelligence mechanisms will allow for quick real-time decision-making based on analysing vast amounts of information known as big data, which provides tremendous advantages in terms of quality and performance. In addition, such mechanisms are unparalleled in history in terms of their impact on the economy and productivity, the effectiveness of management, education, healthcare and daily life. However, vying for technological leadership, primarily, in the sphere of artificial intelligence – and you are all very well aware of this, colleagues – has already lead to global competition. New products and solutions are being created at an exponential growth rate. I have said it before and I will say it now: he who can establish a monopoly in artificial intelligence – we are aware of the consequences – will rule the world. It is no accident that many developed countries of the world have already adopted action plans to develop such technologies. Of course, we must ensure technological sovereignty in the realm of artificial intelligence. This is the most important prerequisite for the viability of our businesses and the economy, the quality of life for Russian citizens, security and, finally, our defence capability. Here, we are not just talking about algorithms for addressing individual and highly specialised problems; what we need are universal solutions, the use of which gives the optimum effect in any industry. In order to achieve such an ambitious goal in AI technology, we are objectively positioned to have a good start and we have a serious competitive edge. Today, Russia boasts one of the world's highest penetration rates for mobile communications and internet access, as well as for the development of electronic services.