Doha, February 04 (QNA) - The State of Qatar has forged ahead with meticulously advanced and learned steps to promote its standing in the artificial intelligence sector, CEO & Founder of the US-based d-Matrix, Sid Sheth, told Qatar News Agency (QNA).

Sheth further added that he has been personally very impressed with the progress of AI in Qatar and the comprehensive strategy the nation pursues to rebuild the AI system in all its layers- across data center infrastructure, silicon, software, and applications.

Qatar's key strengths lie in energy and infrastructure, but the upcoming period requires a sharp focus on software and applications, as this field could undergo a paradigm shift, offering Qatar a wider global influence, Sheth highlighted.

He further noted that hosting major tech events, such as the Web Summit, is a consequential step to understand users' needs, attract global entrepreneurs, and build a robust domestic application system.

Sheth also indicated that Qatar plays a pivotal role in connecting the region with Central Asia via marine cables, thereby opening new apertures for establishing data center infrastructure that serves broader regional markets, such as Azerbaijan and the Central Asian countries.

Collaboration with the Qatar Investment Authority (QIA) began in the last quarter of 2024, as a strategic investor, Sheth outlined, emphasizing that this has provided him with the opportunity to gain a closer look at Qatar National Vision in the AI field.

Qatar not only abounds with financial investment but also possesses clear plans and initiatives for every single layer of AI, reflecting a profound comprehension of the global shifts in this sector, he noted.

Commenting on the concerns among communities about AI, Sheth explained that these fears mostly stem from misunderstanding, stressing that AI represents an opportunity rather than a threat, as long as changes in its nature raise concerns. He suggested that those who adopt AI early are likely to reap the greatest gains, while delayed adoption could result in missed opportunities.

Talking about regulations, Sheth stressed the importance of establishing regulatory and behavioral rules, rather than imposing arbitrary restrictions on AI evolution. He suggested that oversight experiences create room to capitalize on AI capabilities while safeguarding people and society.

Speaking about his company, Sheth outlined that it was founded in 2019 and has since been focusing on operating and spreading AI in terms of inference and deployment, rather than training it.

He suggested that the AI operations market has by far become larger than the training market, because many sectors bet on it, emphasizing that his company develops chips and software that make AI faster and more efficient for all.

Finally, Sheth noted that the world has ushered in a new era of democratization of AI, especially with the emergence of tiny and effective models that offer firms and enterprises the opportunity to leverage AI without resorting to resource behemoths.

He considered this era a historic opportunity for nations that initiate investment and comprehension. (QNA)