AP, Russia explore ties in AI and aluminium sectors

Vijayawada: IT minister Nara Lokesh concluded his visit to Russia with a series of high-level engagements at the St Petersburg International Economic Forum (SPIEF) 2026, focusing on investments, technology cooperation, manufacturing, artificial intelligence and urban innovation. The visit further strengthened the economic partnership between Andhra Pradesh and Russia, building on the foundation laid by RUSAL’s investment plans in the state’s aluminium sector. During discussions with the senior leadership of RUSAL at SPIEF, both sides reviewed the progress of ongoing investments and explored expanding the partnership into a complete aluminium value chain in Andhra Pradesh.The discussions covered opportunities in downstream aluminium manufacturing, automotive and aerospace alloys, aluminium foil production and the development of an integrated aluminium ecosystem involving alumina refining, aluminium production and value-added industries. At SPIEF, Lokesh highlighted the state govt’s vision of emerging as a globally competitive manufacturing and technology hub. The discussions also focused on the growing role of artificial intelligence, logistics, technology and workforce development in shaping future economic growth. Urban innovation and smart mobility were key areas of discussion during the visit. Lokesh held talks with the govt of Moscow and transport minister and vice mayor Maksim Liksutov on advanced traffic management systems, AI-based transport monitoring, integrated command centres and digital mobility solutions.Both sides agreed to explore technical cooperation to improve urban mobility, reduce congestion and enhance road safety through data-driven governance. Discussions with the govt of St Petersburg focused on smart city initiatives, including intelligent surveillance systems, emergency response technologies, digital public infrastructure and citizen service platforms.The delegation also interacted with Russian technology companies, including Yandex, to explore partnerships in AI, machine learning, intelligent transport systems and digital public services. Andhra Pradesh expressed interest in adopting global best practices to accelerate its journey towards becoming an AI-enabled state.Economic cooperation was further strengthened through meetings with leaders of the Republic of Tatarstan, including minister of industry and trade Oleg Korobchenko and deputy prime minister Roman Shaykhutdinov. “The discussions held during SPIEF 2026 demonstrate the enormous potential for expanding economic cooperation between Russia and Andhra Pradesh. We see strong opportunities across manufacturing, advanced materials, urban technologies, artificial intelligence, transportation and industrial development. Andhra Pradesh has emerged as one of India’s most dynamic investment destinations, and we look forward to facilitating stronger engagement between Russian companies and the state,” said trade commissioner Andrey Sobolev.Lokesh said Russia and India share a longstanding partnership, and the engagements during SPIEF 2026 have created new avenues of collaboration. He said Andhra Pradesh is committed to building strong partnerships with Russian businesses and institutions to promote innovation, investments, employment opportunities and sustainable economic growth.