Kazakhstan is strengthening its position in global digital cooperation, as Japan’s Minister of Internal Affairs and Communications Yoshimasa Hayashi welcomed the country’s participation in the Hiroshima AI Process, DKNews.kz reports.
The topic was discussed during a meeting between Kazakhstan’s Ambassador to Japan Yerlan Baudarbek-Kozhatayev and the Japanese minister.
Focus on AI partnership and Central Asia
The talks centered on expanding cooperation in artificial intelligence within the broader Japan–Central Asia partnership.
Particular attention was given to Kazakhstan’s involvement in the Hiroshima AI Process Friends Group, an initiative aimed at shaping international approaches to safe and responsible AI development.
Digital Qazaqstan and innovation platforms
The Kazakh side presented progress in implementing the state program “Digital Qazaqstan,” which is focused on accelerating digital transformation across the economy and public administration.
Opportunities for deeper cooperation were highlighted through key national platforms:
- Astana Hub International Technopark of IT startups
- Alem.AI International Artificial Intelligence Centre
These platforms are expected to serve as a foundation for joint innovation projects and technological exchange.
Priority areas: talent and language AI
Minister Yoshimasa Hayashi pointed to strong potential for bilateral cooperation in emerging technologies.
He identified several priority направления:
- training of qualified specialists
- development of AI language models in national languages
- expansion of digital infrastructure and services
The minister also welcomed ongoing efforts to implement the memorandum on cooperation in information and communication technologies, signed during President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev’s official visit to Japan in December 2025.
Invitation to Astana forum
During the meeting, Kazakhstan invited the Japanese side to take part in the International Forum “AI & Digital Bridge 2026,” scheduled to be held in Astana on October 1–3.
The forum is expected to become a key platform for discussing global trends in artificial intelligence and digital development.
Why this matters
Kazakhstan’s engagement in the Hiroshima AI Process reflects its growing role in shaping global digital governance.
Key implications include:
- integration into international AI policy discussions
- strengthening partnerships with advanced technology economies
- development of national AI ecosystems
- focus on education and human capital in digital sectors
Cooperation with Japan — one of the world’s leading technology hubs — opens new opportunities for Kazakhstan to accelerate innovation and position itself as a regional center for digital transformation.
