“No time to relax“: Tokayev holds meeting on artificial intelligence

Tengrinews.kz - President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev held a meeting on the development of artificial intelligence (AI), citing Akorda.
The meeting was attended by Prime Minister Olzhas Bektenov, Chief of Staff of the Presidential Administration Aibek Dadebay, members of the government, and heads of central state bodies.
In his remarks, the President noted that the world is undergoing significant technological changes driven by the rapid advancement of artificial intelligence.

“This technology directly affects the development of all countries, and without it, it is now impossible to withstand global competition. In short, advanced technologies have become a guarantee of national independence and a driving force for economic growth. We have made some progress in AI, but there is no time to relax. We must work actively in this strategic direction. I consider this one of our top priorities. According to the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD), by 2033 the global AI market could reach $4.8 trillion, and its share in the world’s tech industry will grow from 7% to 29%. This is unprecedented growth,” Tokayev said.

The President stressed that artificial intelligence opens up wide opportunities for development, but also noted the intensifying global competition in this field.

“In July 2025, U.S. President Donald Trump’s administration unveiled America’s AI Action Plan, recognizing AI as a key tool for technological, economic, and defense leadership. Our specialists should study this and other similar documents carefully and draw practical conclusions. Meanwhile, the People’s Republic of China has initiated the creation of the World AI Conference. Its goal is to promote a multilateral approach to AI governance, bridge the digital divide, develop AI ethics, and ensure its sustainable use. I believe Kazakhstan should support China’s proposal, participate in the preparatory activities, and act in our national interest. Our main goal is to become a digital hub in Eurasia. To achieve this, we must move to concrete actions,” said Tokayev.

He emphasized the importance of a systematic approach to every issue, making well-balanced decisions, and exercising strict control over their implementation.

“I have previously spoken about accelerating the creation of a unified national digital ecosystem. I instructed the preparation of the necessary infrastructure, the development of a legislative framework and data collection system, as well as the start of AI implementation. However, the progress on these directives has been unsatisfactory,” Tokayev said.