Microsoft invests in Arabic AI firm as U.S. tries to limit China’s sway

Microsoft plans to invest $1.5 billion in an Abu Dhabi-based artificial intelligence company, a deal that could limit China’s influence in the Gulf region amid rising technological competition with the United States.

In a blog post Tuesday, Brad Smith, Microsoft vice chair and president, said the deal with G42 will deepen international ties for artificial intelligence while ensuring the technology follows “world-leading standards for safe, trusted and responsible AI.”