Digital Bridge Tech Forum Experts Discuss Central Asia’s Future in the AI Era
Experts and officials gathered at the Digital Bridge forum in Astana to discuss the IT sector in Central Asia and the role of human capital in AI development. The panel session, held on October 13, focused on the challenges and opportunities in the region’s IT industry and emphasized the importance of regional cooperation for both development and regulation of AI.
The panel, moderated by Firuzjon Sodikov, COO of Zypl.ai, featured Azizjon Azimi, founder and CEO of Zypl.ai from Tajikistan, Yersultan Yermanov, Head of the IT Industry Development Department of the Ministry of Digital Development, Innovation and Aerospace, Davronbek Parmonov, Deputy Director of Aloqa Ventures from Uzbekistan, and Aslan Sultanov, Managing Partner White Hill Capital.
During the discussion, Azimi highlighted the economic impact of AI on the region, particularly in Tajikistan. He emphasized the need for investment in technologies that drive long-term growth and human capital development in the AI industry. Azimi also outlined Tajikistan’s goal of generating $2 billion from the AI sector by 2040 and their national AI strategy, which includes talent development and the introduction of AI use cases in various sectors.
Azimi proposed the creation of a common AI space for Central Asia, suggesting that a unified approach to AI regulation would harmonize investments among countries and create job opportunities. Yermanov supported this idea but emphasized Kazakhstan’s commitment to liberal regulation that fosters development rather than strict control.
The participants agreed that events like the Digital Bridge forum not only facilitate the exchange of ideas but also create opportunities for investors. They expressed a shared vision for a successful technological future in the entire Central Asia region.
