ASTANA, July 17: Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev has proposed a series of initiatives aimed at developing cross-border digital infrastructure and harmonizing artificial intelligence policies during the opening ceremony of the 2026 World Artificial Intelligence Conference in Shanghai, held under the theme “AI Partnership for a Better Future.”Tokayev proposed launching a Kazakhstan-China Digital Bridge initiative to promote digital trade and develop a practical framework for integrating digital economies under the Belt and Road Initiative. He also called for the safe and large-scale deployment of AI across key sectors, including manufacturing, mining, energy, agriculture, healthcare, and water management.
The President stressed the need for stronger international coordination on AI governance, including harmonized regulatory approaches, common standards for testing and certifying AI systems, and enhanced safeguards against cyber threats, deepfakes, digital fraud, and other emerging risks.Tokayev also expressed hope that China would support Kazakhstan’s proposal to designate next year as the Year of Joint Artificial Intelligence Initiatives between the two countries.He warned that AI capabilities were advancing faster than humanity’s collective ability to understand, assess, and regulate the technology, emphasizing that its development should serve peace and sustainable development rather than confrontation or military competition.The Kazakh leader also called on participating countries and stakeholders to establish a permanent expert platform on AI regulation, standards, and ethics.“Ultimately, the future of AI will be shaped by people. That is why competition for talent in this field will only intensify.
We must equip the younger generation not only with digital skills but also with critical thinking, curiosity, and a strong sense of ethical responsibility. In this regard, Kazakhstan proposes creating an international network of schools, centers of excellence, and academic partnerships under the auspices of the World AI Cooperation Organization,” Tokayev said.Concluding his address, Tokayev reaffirmed Kazakhstan’s commitment to working with international partners to harness the potential of artificial intelligence in support of lasting peace, sustainable development, and shared prosperity.Earlier, President Tokayev attended the opening ceremony of the World Artificial Intelligence Conference in Shanghai, themed “Global Solidarity in the AI Era.” During his working visit to China, he also met Chinese President Xi Jinping and top executives of leading Chinese high-tech companies.During the visit, Kazakhstan and Chinese partners signed more than 70 commercial agreements worth over US$15 billion.
