UAE pushes BRICS to develop indigenous AI capabilities beyond consumption

Hoda Al Khzaimi, representing the UAE at the BRICS forum, emphasized that member nations must move beyond simply adopting existing technologies and instead invest in developing their own AI ecosystems and technological infrastructure. The intervention reflects growing concerns within developing economies about technological dependency and the need for greater self-sufficiency in critical sectors.

Al Khzaimi's remarks highlight priorities that resonate across BRICS nations, particularly India, which has positioned itself as a technology leader while facing challenges in domestic innovation and manufacturing capabilities. The delegate stressed that building indigenous AI capability would strengthen member nations' competitive advantage and reduce reliance on Western technology providers.

Beyond artificial intelligence, the UAE delegation has advocated for strengthened intellectual property frameworks within BRICS, enabling member states to protect and commercialize their innovations more effectively. The emphasis on resilient value chains reflects broader geopolitical shifts, as bloc members seek to reduce supply-chain vulnerabilities exposed during recent global disruptions.

Cybersecurity has emerged as another critical component of BRICS cooperation, with Al Khzaimi underscoring the importance of developing coordinated defense mechanisms against digital threats. These priorities signal the bloc's ambition to establish a more autonomous technological ecosystem capable of competing with established global powers while addressing the unique development needs of member nations.