China-Russia Technological Cooperation in the Era of Artificial Intelligence
Over the past decade, competitive developments in global science and technology have entered a new stage, where Western monopolies are weakening and the globalization of innovation is increasingly moving toward multipolarity. Global investment in areas such as artificial intelligence has surged dramatically (from $8 billion in 2014 to over $110 billion in 2024), with China leading strategic investments, presenting a new picture of emerging technological powers.
In 2023 alone, China invested over $15.3 billion in quantum technologies, ranking first worldwide, and in 2024, five major Chinese companies were among the top 50 global firms in research and development expenditures. The emergence of Chinese smart technologies has structurally influenced markets, steering the global technology flow toward de-Westernization and reduced reliance on the U.S.
China has independently developed key technologies such as 5G, advanced drones, quantum computing, space stations, offshore energy infrastructure, and numerous other advanced tools, establishing a strong model for escaping Western technological dependence. Combined with China’s 20 million-strong engineering community and over 4 million valid patents, the country has become a champion of technology de-Westernization—a process of strategic importance to Russia.
Meanwhile, non-Western technological alliances such as BRICS and ASEAN are strengthening independent innovation ecosystems and setting shared standards, contributing to a more equitable scientific order. Data shows that joint scientific output among BRICS countries has exceeded 15,000 articles per year over the past 20 years, making these nations one of the new pillars of global innovation.
At the same time, technological gaps and tensions among Western countries (ranging from digital tax disputes to semiconductor export controls) have eroded the previous order. Russia, facing over 15,000 sanctions since 2022, has rapidly moved toward independent software development, establishing semiconductor design centers, and localizing digital infrastructure.
In this context, the synergy between China and Russia in smart technologies can establish a new foundation for a non-Western technological order and allow these two powers to play a decisive role in shaping the future of global innovation.