In an era where technology dictates geopolitical dominance, I sat down with Taurimas Valys, Adviser to the Prime Minister on Economic Diplomacy and Efficiency of State, to explore how AI, blockchain, and data-driven governance are reshaping nations.

From sovereign AI strategies to attracting trillion-dollar tech investments, this conversation reveals how forward-thinking governments are leveraging innovation to outmaneuver competitors—and what it means for businesses, investors, and citizens.

1. The New Arms Race: AI as a Tool of Economic Diplomacy

“The next superpower won’t be the one with the most missiles—it’ll be the one with the best algorithms.”

How generative AI is being weaponized for trade negotiations and policy design.

• Case studies: UAE’s AI-powered visa systems, Estonia’s digital governance.
• Why data sovereignty is the new oil (and who’s winning).

2. Blockchain and the Future of State Efficiency

“If your government can’t process a permit faster than Amazon delivers a package, you’re failing.”

• How smart contracts are cutting bureaucracy (e.g., Georgia’s land registry).
• The rise of central bank digital currencies (CBDCs) as diplomatic tools.
• Cyber resilience as a national security priority.

3. Attracting Tech Titans: Policy Hacks for the AI Age

“Tesla doesn’t choose cities—cities compete for Tesla.”

• How tax incentives, regulatory sandboxes, and talent pipelines lure tech HQs.
• The #1 mistake governments make when pitching to Silicon Valley.
• Why Web3 infrastructure is becoming a national priority (see: South Korea, Singapore).

4. Risks and Ethical Frontiers

“Unregulated AI is like letting corporations print laws.”

• Deepfake diplomacy and the threat of algorithmic disinformation.
• Balancing innovation with democratic oversight.
• Why public-private R&D partnerships are critical (and underused).