At the international forum AI & Digital Bridge 2026 in Astana on October 1, 2026, the President of Kazakhstan, Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, delivered a speech, noting that this platform has become a recognized and respected center in Eurasia.
The head of state emphasized that the forum brings together experienced specialists who make significant contributions to the technological development of the world. He stated that innovative ideas are born here, business contacts are established, and real projects are launched, calling AI & Digital Bridge 2026 a unique platform for people with creative potential and innovative thinking.
Tokayev highlighted the critical importance of developing new technologies that have become an integral part of the rapidly changing era. He noted that artificial intelligence is fundamentally transforming sectors such as finance, education, science, public administration, and people's lifestyles. In this regard, the forum's agenda is updated annually, including discussions on computing infrastructure, large language models, and robotics, with special attention paid to legislative regulation and ensuring safety in science and technology.
The head of Kazakhstan stated the need to demonstrate the highest level of responsibility and integrity regarding artificial intelligence. He mentioned the recent signing of the Superintelligence Agreement, initiated by President Donald Trump with leading American technology companies, believing that this approach could become a global model after careful discussion.
Kassym-Jomart Tokayev informed participants about systemic measures and achievements of Kazakhstan in its transformation into a fully digital state. He noted that Kazakhstan's IT service exports exceeded 1 billion US dollars last year, and digital solutions are used in more than 100 countries. These successes, he said, reflect the country's desire to contribute to the progress of both itself and the world. Nevertheless, he stressed that in the field of advanced technologies, one cannot stop at what has been achieved, and support for startups and the implementation of advanced projects are necessary to build a strong technological foundation.
In this context, the President proposed developing a list of industrial tasks in the field of AI based on real economic needs and initiating an AI Challenge involving Kazakhstani and international teams. The best projects demonstrating effectiveness will be implemented in production.
The President of Kazakhstan separately addressed the topic of artificial intelligence regulation. He reported that Kazakhstan has already created a basic legal framework for digital transformation, including the Artificial Intelligence Law and the Digital Code. However, in the President's opinion, it is necessary to ensure a carefully balanced institutional structure and a risk-assessment-based approach. Tokayev warned that regulation should not be so rigid that talented teams, developments, and capital move to other jurisdictions, insisting on the principle: requirements must be strict but not excessive when it comes to safety, rights, and vital interests of citizens.
The President of Kazakhstan placed great emphasis on human capital, stating that modern data centers and advanced technologies alone do not guarantee desired results, as technological breakthroughs are impossible without scientists, engineers, and entrepreneurs. In this regard, it was proposed to establish a national scientific and engineering school to train qualified, educated, and innovation-minded specialists. A special task for this purpose was assigned to the recently opened Qazaq AI Research University. This organization should not only educate but also conduct scientific research that meets the needs of industry and the economy.
To achieve this goal, the AI+X model is being implemented, aimed at applying artificial intelligence in specific sectors such as energy, medicine, finance, and public administration. Overall, there is a need to train strong, truly qualified specialists capable of creating ready-made products and new technologies. It was emphasized that AI is only an auxiliary tool in the process of learning and acquiring knowledge, not a substitute for human intellectual abilities. The faster technologies develop, the more important critical thinking, decision-making, and a sense of responsibility become.
Kassym-Jomart Tokayev stressed the importance of fostering a culture of responsible use of artificial intelligence. He stated that no country can realize the full potential of AI alone, so international exchange of knowledge, joint research, investment, technological cooperation, and talent support are necessary. Kazakhstan consistently advocates for the peaceful, safe, and responsible use of AI, asserting that the technology should serve people and act as a catalyst for progress, not create new divisions. Maintaining open channels of scientific and technical interaction is of paramount importance, as technological barriers can widen the gap between states.
The President believes that as the capabilities of AI expand, so do the associated risks. He listed problems that require timely solutions: cybersecurity, data protection, information reliability, algorithmic transparency, and accountability for decisions made. Recognizing AI as a powerful tool, Tokayev noted that ultimately, everything depends on the person who uses it, and that AI can be called a powerful tool or weapon of our time. Thus, the benefit or harm to global development depends primarily on humanity itself.
He also noted that AI provides youth with broad opportunities for quality education and comprehensive development, urging young compatriots to effectively utilize these chances and develop as educated individuals capable of working freely with AI and possessing critical thinking skills.
In conclusion, the President stated that Kazakhstan has laid a solid foundation for a new technological economy. The main task of the Year of Digitalization and Artificial Intelligence is to transform the achieved progress into tangible results for every citizen and make this irreversible. He expressed confidence that Kazakhstan possesses all the necessary prerequisites to take a worthy place in the new technological era, and that success will depend on deep knowledge, bold decisions, a pragmatic approach, and responsible actions. Tokayev concluded his speech by expressing hope that AI & Digital Bridge will gather talents and ideas, deepen international cooperation, and serve as a starting point for ambitious projects.