Republican lawmakers have raised concerns about Microsoft's $1.5 billion investment in UAE-based AI firm G42 due to G42's historical ties to China. They have requested an intelligence assessment from the Biden administration regarding the deal. The lawmakers are particularly concerned about the possible transfer of sensitive technology as the deal involves export-restricted chips and vital AI model data. Microsoft's investment in G42 has raised concerns about the potential risks of technology transfer to China, given G42's past connections to the country. The lawmakers are seeking more information to ensure that national security interests are protected [fac839f9].
This development comes in the context of growing concerns about China's access to advanced technology and the potential risks it poses to national security. The US government has been taking steps to restrict investments and exports in certain technology sectors to prevent the transfer of sensitive technology to China. The concerns raised by Republican lawmakers reflect the broader debate about the balance between economic interests and national security in the context of US-China relations [fac839f9].