Lokesh Pushes Tech Ties Russia
Moscow, June 3: Andhra Pradesh Minister for HRD, IT and Electronics Nara Lokesh held a series of high-level meetings in Moscow as part of the state’s global outreach to attract investments in emerging technologies, industrial development and digital innovation.
Lokesh met Albert Yefimov, Senior Vice President of Sberbank, to discuss cooperation in artificial intelligence, quantum computing, fintech and digital infrastructure. The talks focused on sovereign AI capabilities, generative AI models, cybersecurity systems and workforce skilling. Sberbank showcased its GigaChat large language model and digital solutions used in banking and governance. Lokesh expressed interest in adopting global best practices to position Andhra Pradesh as an AI hub and proposed expanding GigaChat services in India, along with collaboration on UPI security using biometric and voice-based anti-fraud systems.
He also proposed setting up School 21 coding academies to train technology professionals and sought support for Rupee-Ruble trade to boost exports from Andhra Pradesh.
In another meeting, Lokesh held discussions with Ruschem Group on establishing a chemical processing plant in the Visakhapatnam-Kakinada Petroleum, Chemicals and Petrochemicals Investment Region. He also proposed a polymer research center and low-carbon manufacturing unit aligned with clean energy goals.
Further, he invited Element Group to establish semiconductor and electronics manufacturing units in Visakhapatnam, Nellore and Sri City. Lokesh also explored smart transport systems after visiting Moscow’s Advanced Transport Development Center, aiming to replicate efficient urban mobility models in India.
