China Technology 2017: Artificial Intelligence Research Gets Billions To Develop New Robots, Weapons

China has pledged billions of dollars to boost the development of artificial intelligence in the country's first technology research drive of its kind, highlighting Beijing's commitment to expanding the horizons of the nascent field. During an annual meeting of parliament, Chinese Premier Li Keqiang told legislators Sunday that the nation would invest in new technologies and their associated markets. The new initiative was set to devote up to $5.5 billion by 2018, according to an analyst with the South China Post, which reported the story Thursday. In his speech, Li outlined where the funds would likely be appropriated. "We will implement a comprehensive plan to boost strategic emerging industries," Keqiang said.