AI Must Not Create New Dividing Lines, Says Kazakhstan President
President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev calls for responsible AI development and warns against technological barriers during the AI & Digital Bridge 2026.
In a powerful call for global unity through innovation, Kazakhstan President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev has emphasized that technology must serve as a catalyst for human progress rather than a tool for separation. Speaking at the opening session of the AI & Digital Bridge 2026, the President warned that artificial intelligence should not be allowed to create new socio-economic dividing lines between nations.
Addressing a massive gathering of tech leaders, investors, and researchers, Tokayev highlighted the dangers of technological isolationism. He argued that no single nation can truly unlock its full potential in a vacuum, stressing the necessity of international knowledge exchange and joint research.
Bridging the Global Tech Gap
The President expressed deep concern that if technological barriers are allowed to rise, the gap between developed and developing nations will only widen, ultimately slowing down global human progress. To combat this, he advocated for an open approach to scientific and technological cooperation.
“Our view remains unchanged: technology must serve humanity and act as a catalyst for progress. Artificial intelligence must not create new dividing lines,” Tokayev stated. He added that Kazakhstan’s approach to international collaboration is rooted in a respect for national interests and the peaceful application of new technologies.
Kazakhstan’s Vision: The Eurasian AI Hub
Marking a significant milestone for the nation, the President officially declared 2026 as the Year of Digitalisation and Artificial Intelligence. He revealed a bold strategic intent to position Kazakhstan as the primary Eurasian AI Hub, transforming the country into a central node for digital innovation in the region.
The AI & Digital Bridge 2026, described as one of the largest technology events in Central Eurasia, serves as a platform to explore the intersection of AI with several critical sectors, including:
- The digital economy and investment landscapes
- Entrepreneurship and creative industries
- Public administration and governance
- The future of global education
The Regulation Dilemma: Safety Without Stagnation
A key theme of the President's address was the delicate balance required in regulating artificial intelligence. While acknowledging the need for safeguards, he cautioned against "overregulation" that might stifle innovation.
“We must not overregulate this sphere to the point where promising teams, technologies and capital begin moving to other jurisdictions,” he warned. He proposed a principle of strict requirements only where the safety, rights, and vital interests of citizens are at stake, suggesting a risk-based approach rather than excessive bureaucratic hurdles.
Kazakhstan has already laid the groundwork for this digital evolution by establishing a legal framework that includes the Law on Artificial Intelligence and a dedicated Digital Code.
Global Models for AI Safety
In a notable moment during the plenary session, President Tokayev commended the recent signing of the Superintelligence Accord. This voluntary 2026 agreement, signed under the leadership of US President Donald Trump, involves major tech giants such as Google, Meta, OpenAI, Anthropic, xAI, and Nvidia. The accord commits these leaders to rigorous safety controls for frontier AI systems.
Tokayev suggested that this framework could serve as a global model for other nations to adopt after careful consideration, ensuring that the race for superintelligence does not compromise human safety.
The forum features high-profile speakers, including General Atlantic CEO William E. Ford and NVIDIA Vice President Rev Lebaredian, all working to map out the immense strengths and significant risks posed by the rapid advancement of artificial intelligence.