China Prioritizes 3 Strategic Technologies in Its Great Power Competition
In the 21st century, the world is increasingly defined by competition among major powers, with technology being a key battleground. China, as a rising power, has identified three strategic technologies that it sees as crucial to its ambitions for global dominance: artificial intelligence (AI), quantum computing, and 5G communications.
The Chinese government has made it clear that these technologies are national priorities, and it is investing heavily in them. This has led to concerns among other countries, particularly the United States, which sees China’s push for dominance in these areas as a threat to its own global leadership.
Artificial Intelligence (AI)
Artificial intelligence (AI) is a broad field that encompasses a range of technologies, from machine learning algorithms to natural language processing. China has made significant investments in AI in recent years, with the aim of becoming the world leader in this field by 2030.
The Chinese government has set ambitious targets for AI development, with plans to build a $150 billion AI industry by 2030. It has also created a national AI development plan, which includes funding for research and development, as well as policies aimed at promoting the use of AI in industry, healthcare, and other sectors.
Quantum Computing
Quantum computing is another area where China is making significant investments. Quantum computers use the principles of quantum mechanics to perform calculations at a much faster rate than traditional computers. This technology has the potential to revolutionize fields such as cryptography and drug discovery.
China has been investing heavily in quantum computing research and development, with the aim of becoming the global leader in this field. It has built the world’s largest quantum research facility in Hefei, and it is investing in a range of projects aimed at developing practical applications for quantum computing.
5G Communications
5G communications technology is the latest iteration of mobile network technology, offering faster speeds, lower latency, and higher capacity than its predecessors. This technology has the potential to transform a range of industries, from healthcare to transportation.
China has been at the forefront of 5G development, with its leading telecoms companies investing heavily in the technology. Chinese companies are also leading the way in 5G infrastructure development, with Huawei being one of the world’s largest suppliers of 5G equipment.
Implications for the Global Order
China’s focus on these three strategic technologies has significant implications for the global order. Its push for dominance in these areas has raised concerns among other countries, particularly the United States, which sees China’s ambitions as a threat to its own global leadership.
The United States has responded to China’s rise in these areas with measures such as export controls on sensitive technologies, and a push for greater investment in research and development. Other countries, such as Japan and South Korea, have also ramped up their investments in these areas in response to China’s push for dominance.
In conclusion, China’s prioritization of AI, quantum computing, and 5G communications is a reflection of its ambitions for global dominance in the 21st century. Its investments in these areas have significant implications for the global order, as other countries respond to China’s push for dominance. The coming years will likely see increased competition among major powers in these strategic technologies, as they seek to shape the future of the global economy and security.
