Vijayawada: State IT minister Nara Lokesh held talks with senior executives of Russia’s Sberbank on Wednesday, exploring collaboration in artificial intelligence, quantum computing, digital innovation and workforce development as part of Andhra Pradesh’s technology outreach in Russia.Lokesh met Sberbank senior vice-president Albert Yefimov on the opening day of the visit and discussed advancements in sovereign AI, digital platforms and technology-led public services, while outlining AP’s vision of emerging as a major innovation hub.Sberbank showcased its technology ecosystem, including its GigaChat large language model, AI research initiatives and digital solutions deployed across banking and citizen services, offering insights into Russia’s indigenous tech capabilities.Lokesh highlighted AP’s focus on building a future-ready digital economy and expressed interest in adopting global best practices. Discussions covered generative AI, digital public infrastructure, cybersecurity, fintech and advanced computing.A key focus was on AI-driven healthcare, including early disease detection, diagnostics and hospital management. Lokesh stressed the state’s interest in leveraging technology to improve healthcare access and outcomes. The two sides also explored potential collaboration in quantum computing, particularly through academic and research partnerships.Separately, Lokesh invited Russia-based Ruschem Group to invest in AP’s petrochemical and logistics sectors. In talks with deputy CEO Ilya Kosyh and international business head Darya Ashanina, he proposed setting up a chemical processing plant in the Vizag-Kakinada PCPIR and developing port-based chemical logistics hubs.He also suggested a Polymer Applications and Material Science R&D Centre and low-carbon chemical manufacturing units linked to renewable energy corridors.Ruschem responded positively, indicating interest in expanding its India presence and exploring opportunities in AP. MP Lavu Srikrishnadevarayalu was present.