The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has stepped forward to address growing US concerns regarding the potential diversion of advanced chip technology to China. In a move to reassure its American allies, the UAE has firmly stated its commitment to safeguarding these critical technologies. This assurance comes at a time when the Biden administration is considering imposing restrictions on chip sales from tech giants Nvidia and AMD to the Middle East.
The UAE’s pledge for transparency and security was voiced by Peng Xiao, CEO of the prominent AI firm G42. In an interview with CNBC, Xiao reiterated the UAE’s dedication to protecting sensitive technology. He emphasized that the UAE is a reliable partner for the US in securing chip technology, underlining the country’s commitment to responsible technology sharing.
Xiao’s statements follow the Biden administration’s contemplation of restricting chip sales to the Middle East. While acknowledging the US’s position, Xiao stated, “I cannot read the mind of the U.S. policymakers, but in many ways, I understand their position. At the same time from our side, we’ve shown from the UAE side how transparent we are and how we can guarantee the safety and the security of this technology.”
His remarks underscore the UAE’s commitment to transparency and its ability to ensure chip security. Xiao also expressed optimism for enhanced collaboration and technology sharing between the US and UAE, highlighting the potential for a strong and mutually beneficial partnership.
Despite previous US warnings about G42’s connections to China, the company has taken proactive steps to reassure American partners. Notably, G42 has divested stakes in Chinese firms, demonstrating its commitment to transparency and mitigating potential security concerns. In April, Microsoft entered a $1.5 billion agreement with G42, signifying the UAE’s ambitions in the field of AI.
The UAE’s proactive approach extends to broader AI cooperation. Both the UAE and US have pledged to strengthen their AI collaboration, with a joint statement affirming their commitment to fostering collaboration in AI and related technologies. This shared commitment reflects the recognition of the importance of AI development and the potential for mutual benefit.
The US has been cautious about the export of AI chips to the Middle East due to national security concerns. In May, the US government temporarily halted the issuance of licenses for AI chip exports to the region, impacting companies like Nvidia and AMD. This move was part of a broader national security review of AI development in the area.
The UAE has acknowledged the US’s concerns about the potential diversion of advanced chip technologies to China. The UAE’s Minister for Artificial Intelligence and Digital Economy, Omar Al Olama, recognized the geopolitical challenges posed by the UAE’s strategic location.
The Biden administration is considering restricting the export of advanced AI chips to certain countries, including those in the Persian Gulf. This proposal aims to limit the AI capabilities of specific nations, citing national security concerns. The UAE’s reassurances and proactive steps towards transparency are likely to be key factors in the Biden administration’s final decision on chip export restrictions.