President H.E. Kassym-Jomart Tokayev has urged stronger international cooperation on artificial intelligence, proposing new cross-border digital initiatives and ethical AI governance at the 2026 World Artificial Intelligence Conference in Shanghai.
President of Kazakhstan H.E. Kassym-Jomart Tokayev has called for enhanced international cooperation on artificial intelligence (AI), unveiling a series of proposals aimed at strengthening digital connectivity, AI governance and sustainable development during the opening ceremony of the 2026 World Artificial Intelligence Conference (WAIC) in Shanghai. Speaking under the conference theme, “AI Partnership for a Better Future,” Tokayev emphasised that AI should be developed as a force for peace, shared prosperity and long-term sustainability rather than geopolitical rivalry.
Among the key initiatives announced was the proposed Kazakhstan–China Digital Bridge, designed to facilitate digital trade and establish a practical framework for integrating digital economies under the Belt and Road Initiative. Tokayev also advocated the responsible and large-scale deployment of AI across strategic industries, including manufacturing, mining, energy, agriculture, healthcare and water management, highlighting the technology’s potential to drive economic transformation and improve public services.
The Kazakh leader stressed that the rapid pace of AI innovation now exceeds the world’s collective ability to regulate and fully understand its implications. He therefore called for closer international coordination on AI governance through harmonised regulatory frameworks, common standards for testing and certifying AI systems, and stronger safeguards against cyber threats, deepfakes, digital fraud and other emerging risks. He further proposed the establishment of a permanent international expert platform dedicated to AI regulation, standards and ethics.
Looking towards future cooperation, Tokayev expressed hope that China would support Kazakhstan’s proposal to designate the coming year as the Year of Joint Artificial Intelligence Initiatives between the two countries. He also proposed creating an international network of schools, centres of excellence and academic partnerships under the auspices of the World AI Cooperation Organization to develop future AI talent equipped with technical expertise, critical thinking and ethical responsibility.
Tokayev concluded by reaffirming Kazakhstan’s commitment to working closely with global partners to harness artificial intelligence in support of lasting peace, sustainable development and shared prosperity. His address formed part of a broader working visit to Shanghai, where he also met executives from leading Chinese technology companies. During the visit, Kazakhstan and Chinese partners signed more than 70 commercial agreements valued at over US$15 billion, underscoring the growing strategic and economic partnership between the two countries.
Source: Kazinform
