Key facts
- Central Asian nations are deepening AI cooperation with China, attending the World Artificial Intelligence Conference in Shanghai.
- An agreement was signed to establish the World Artificial Intelligence Cooperation Organization (WAICO) in Shanghai.
- Over $15 billion in deals were signed between Central Asian countries and Chinese firms, focusing on AI and digital infrastructure.
- Kazakhstan's President Tokayev praised China's AI advancements and offered to host WAICO's first meeting.
- ABB Bank is integrating AI across its operations in Central Asia and the Caucasus, utilizing over 180 AI models.
Central Asian nations are increasingly aligning with Beijing's artificial intelligence development strategy amidst growing competition with the United States for technological dominance in the region. Officials from Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan recently attended the World Artificial Intelligence Conference in Shanghai, where Chinese leader Xi Jinping outlined an ambitious plan for China's global AI leadership.
The differing approaches to AI development between the US and China are becoming more pronounced. Ahead of the conference, representatives from 29 countries, including the four Central Asian states, signed an agreement to establish the World Artificial Intelligence Cooperation Organization (WAICO) in Shanghai, signaling Beijing's intent to promote its AI agenda internationally.
Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev lauded China's AI achievements, noting the significant number of AI researchers and patents originating from the country. He proposed hosting WAICO's inaugural meeting in Astana and establishing its Central Asian office there. Following meetings with Xi and Chinese executives, over $15 billion in deals were signed, many focusing on AI, digital infrastructure, and other advanced technologies.
Specific agreements included Kazakhstan's deals on a multifunctional terminal, a hydroelectric facility, and coke battery complexes. Kazakhstan also partnered with Geely Auto Group to develop EV-charging infrastructure and integrate AI into its automotive sector. Kyrgyzstan secured agreements for a fertilizer plant and a veterinary vaccine plant with Chinese companies. Turkmenistan signed a package of agreements with China covering energy, AI, science, technology, and education.