A deal has been struck between France and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) to establish a 1 gigawatt capacity data center dedicated to artificial intelligence. Following discussions between French President Emmanuel Macron and UAE leader Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed al-Nahyan, the agreement is expected to attract investments ranging from $30 billion to $50 billion.

France and the UAE have reached a framework agreement to establish a 1 gigawatt capacity data center dedicated to artificial intelligence.

The agreement, which anticipates investments between $30 billion and $50 billion, was announced by the French Presidency on Thursday.

French President Emmanuel Macron hosted Emirati leader Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed al-Nahyan in Paris on Thursday evening.

This meeting took place ahead of an artificial intelligence summit scheduled for February 10-11 with participation from around 100 countries. The aim of the summit is to focus on the potential of artificial intelligence.

AIMING TO POSITION EUROPE AGAINST THE US AND CHINA

This summit also aims to position France and Europe ahead in the competition in artificial intelligence against the US and China.

Achieving independence in this field is of great importance, especially considering the high energy requirements of artificial intelligence technology.

STRATEGIC ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE PARTNERSHIP BETWEEN FRANCE AND UAE

In a joint statement by France and the UAE, it stated, “The two leaders expressed a desire to establish a strategic partnership in the field of artificial intelligence and committed to collaborating on projects and investments that support the development of the artificial intelligence value chain.”

It was mentioned that these investments will focus on supplying the latest chips, data centers, talent development, and establishing virtual data embassies for both French and Emirati artificial intelligence technologies.

As a result, sovereign artificial intelligence and cloud infrastructures can be established in both countries. The first announcement regarding investments is expected to be made at the Choose France summit to be held this year. Additionally, on the same day, the French government announced that it has identified 35 locations that can host artificial intelligence data centers.