Addressing the participants of the event, Kassym-Jomart Tokayev noted that AI & Digital Bridge has become a reputable and widely recognized platform in Eurasia.
“The forum brings together experienced professionals who make a significant contribution to the technological development of the world. This is a place where innovative ideas are born, business contacts are forged and real projects are launched. Therefore, it is no exaggeration to say that AI & Digital Bridge-2026 is a unique platform that brings together people with innovative thinking, creativity and intellectual potential,” the Head of State said.
The President underscored the exceptional importance of developing new technologies, which have become an inescapable reality of our rapidly changing era.
“We are all witnessing how artificial intelligence technologies are fundamentally transforming industry, finance, education, science, public administration and people’s way of life. Against this backdrop, the agenda of AI & Digital Bridge is updated every year, with new and relevant topics emerging and the circle of participants expanding. Alongside digitalization, the forum features discussions on computing infrastructure, large language models and robotics. Particular attention is given to legislative regulation and ensuring safety in science and technology. Thus, AI & Digital Bridge effectively serves as a golden bridge for international engagement in the field of emerging technologies,” Kassym-Jomart Tokayev said.
The Head of State stated the need to develop AI with full responsibility and integrity.
“I would like to commend the recent signing of the Superintelligence Accord by leading American tech companies under the leadership of President Trump. From my perspective, this approach could be regarded by all countries involved as a model to be adopted globally after serious considerations,” Kassym-Jomart Tokayev noted.
The President emphasized that Kazakhstan is consistently creating the conditions for its transformation into a fully digital state. In this regard, the Head of State outlined the country’s systemic measures and achievements to the participants.
“Last year, Kazakhstan’s exports of IT services exceeded one billion US dollars. Our digital solutions available for more than 100 countries around the world. All these steps and achievements reflect Kazakhstan’s genuine desire to drive the progress for the prosperity of our country and even beyond. Nevertheless, we cannot rest on our achievements in the field of advanced technologies. If we seek to build a strong technological foundation for our country, we must provide tangible support to innovative startups and implement cutting-edge projects,” he said.
In this context, Kassym-Jomart Tokayev stressed the importance of developing a list of industrial AI challenges based on the real needs of the economy. The Head of State also proposed launching an AI Challenge based on this list, involving both Kazakhstani and international teams. The best projects demonstrating proven effectiveness will be implemented in production.
The Head of State placed particular emphasis on the regulation of artificial intelligence. He noted that Kazakhstan has already established a basic legal framework for digital transformation, including the Law on Artificial Intelligence and the Digital Code. At the same time, according to the President, it is essential to ensure a carefully calibrated institutional balance and a risk-based approach.
“We must not overregulate this sphere to the point where promising teams, technologies and capital begin moving to other jurisdictions. We should follow a simple principle: where safety, rights and vital interests of citizens are at stake, requirements must be strict, but not excessive,” Kassym-Jomart Tokayev said.
The Head of State devoted particular attention to human capital. According to him, modern data centers and advanced technologies alone cannot guarantee the desired results, while a technological breakthrough is impossible without scientists, engineers and entrepreneurs.
“Therefore, we must establish a national scientific and engineering school capable of training educated, highly qualified and innovative-minded professionals. In this regard, a special role is assigned to the recently opened Qazaq AI Research University. Alongside providing education, this institution should conduct research that responds to the needs of industry and the economy. To this end, the AI+X model is being introduced to apply artificial intelligence in specific sectors. Its potential should be effectively harnessed in industry, energy, healthcare, finance and public administration. Overall, we need strong, highly qualified professionals capable of developing market-ready products and new technologies. There is one important aspect to bear in mind. Artificial intelligence is not a substitute for human intellectual abilities, but rather an auxiliary tool in the process of learning and acquiring knowledge. The faster technology advances, the more important the pursuit of knowledge, critical thinking, decision-making skills and a sense of responsibility become,” the President said.
Kassym-Jomart Tokayev underscored the importance of fostering a culture of responsible use of artificial intelligence.
“No nation can fully unlock its potential in isolation. We need international knowledge exchange, joint research, investment, tech cooperation and talent development. Kazakhstan consistently advocates for the peaceful, safe and responsible development of artificial intelligence. Our view remains unchanged: technology must serve humanity and act as a catalyst for progress. Artificial intelligence must not create new dividing lines. Technological barriers will only widen the gap between nations and slow down our progress. This is why keeping the channels of scientific and technological cooperation open is more critical and crucial today than ever before. Our approach to international cooperation is guided by respect for national interests and the peaceful use of technology,” the Head of State said.
The President noted that as the capabilities of artificial intelligence expand, so do the associated risks.
“Cybersecurity, data protection, the integrity of information, algorithmic transparency and accountability for decisions – all these issues require a timely response. Artificial Intelligence has already been acknowledged as a powerful tool. Here we have no differences. But ultimately, everything depends on the human being who uses it. In essence, artificial intelligence can be described as a powerful tool and even a weapon of our time. Therefore, whether it brings benefit or harm to global development will depend, first and foremost, on humanity itself,” Kassym-Jomart Tokayev said.
The President went on to note that artificial intelligence opens up broad opportunities for young people to receive quality education and pursue comprehensive development.
“It is important that our young compatriots make effective use of these opportunities and develop as educated individuals who can confidently harness artificial intelligence while possessing critical thinking skills,” the President emphasized.
In conclusion, the Head of State stated that Kazakhstan has laid a solid foundation for a new tech economy.
“The central task of the Year of Digitalization and Artificial Intelligence is to turn this progress into tangible benefits for every citizen and make it irreversible. Kazakhstan is well positioned to take its place in the new tech era. Our success will depend on deep knowledge, bold decisions, pragmatic approach and responsible action. I am confident that AI & Digital Bridge will bring together talent and ideas, deepen international cooperation and help to launch ambitious projects,” Kassym-Jomart Tokayev concluded.
The plenary session of the technology forum also featured remarks by William Ford, Chairman and CEO of General Atlantic; Rev Lebaredian, Vice President of NVIDIA; Balaji Srinivasan, Founder of the Network School; and Greg Wyler, Founder of OneWeb and E-Space.
