Doha:During a session on artificial intelligence (AI) investment at the ninth edition of the World Investment Forum in Doha, international officials and experts discussed investment opportunities in digital infrastructure and smart applications. The discussions focused on enabling small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to leverage advanced technologies while addressing challenges such as expanding digital connectivity, reducing technology costs, and ensuring equitable distribution of AI-derived economic benefits.
According to Qatar News Agency, Abdullah bin Hamad Al Misnad, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Qai, emphasized the importance of investing in strong AI infrastructure and forming strategic partnerships. He noted that these initiatives can transform technological investments into sustainable economic value and enhance corporate productivity and enterprise growth. He stressed that tangible returns from AI investments require empowering businesses and end-users to adopt these technologies for optimizing operational performance.
Peng Yang, CEO of Ant International, highlighted the need to democratize access to AI, blockchain, and digital financial services for SMEs. He stated that his firm serves approximately 16 million merchants globally, 95 percent of which are SMEs. Yang emphasized the role of integrated cross-border payment and financial management solutions in facilitating international commercial operations and accelerating small-business growth.
Thomas Lamanauskas, Deputy Secretary-General of the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), drew attention to the global disparity in AI investment and computing power distribution. He highlighted that around 2.2 billion people worldwide remain disconnected from the internet. Bridging the global digital infrastructure gap will require an estimated $2.8 trillion in investments by 2030, he explained, stressing the need to modernize telecommunications networks, ensure reliable electricity access, develop digital skills, and create an investment climate that attracts private capital.
Kai-Fu Lee, CEO of 01.AI and Chairman of Sinovation Ventures, asserted the importance of practical, domain-specific AI applications as the main catalyst for economic value extraction. He noted that developing economies could maximize their returns from AI by using lower-cost, open-source models, enabling local businesses and consumers to access scalable solutions without prohibitive costs.
In conclusion, participants at the forum reiterated the urgency of strengthening international public-private partnerships and increasing investments in digital infrastructure, human capital, and operational applications to enhance AI accessibility and promote inclusive, sustainable global economic growth.
