Almaty Forum Spotlights AI and Tech Collaboration in Region
The Digital Almaty 2025 forum commenced with a plenary session involving officials from Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) countries discussing the future of digital technologies, specifically artificial intelligence (AI) and its impact on economic growth on Jan.31.
During the forum, Olzhas Bektenov, the Kazakh Prime Minister, highlighted the importance of embracing artificial intelligence as a key driver of economic growth, citing its transformative effects on global industries. Bektenov emphasized the necessity for quick adaptation to the rapidly evolving digital world and stressed the potential of AI to add nearly $20 trillion to the global economy by 2030, as projected by the International Data Corporation (IDC).
The forum also saw discussions on AI spending trends globally, with Andrew Beklemishev, the chairman of the Public Council at the Kazakh Ministry of Digital Development, Innovations, and Aerospace Industry, sharing insights on the exponential growth in AI technology investments. Beklemishev emphasized the significance of data as the fuel for AI development and highlighted the need for reliable and accessible data for the effectiveness of AI technologies.
Bakytzhan Sagintayev, the chairman of the Eurasian Economic Commission Collegium, outlined the EAEU’s efforts towards digital integration and economic cooperation through initiatives like the Digital Union concept. He emphasized the role of digitalization in enhancing trade, labor migration, and government services across member states.
Furthermore, the forum shed light on the regional advancements and cooperation in AI development. Prime ministers from EAEU member countries shared their national digital strategies, emphasizing the importance of collaboration in technological transformations. Countries like Azerbaijan, Belarus, Kyrgyz Republic, and Iran highlighted their progress in AI applications and underlined the need for regional cooperation to shape the development of AI technologies.
The event, with an expected participation of over 40,000 individuals, serves as a crucial platform for technology exchange, strategic partnerships, and investments in high-tech industries. With a focus on “Industrial AI: Technologies for the New Era,” the forum aims to showcase AI’s impact beyond industrial sectors into healthcare, education, and creative fields. Through interactive elements like a virtual exhibition and AI podcast studio, the forum enables remote participation and fosters connections to strengthen Kazakhstan’s position as a regional IT hub and integrate the country into the global digital economy.
