DIGITAL BRIDGE FORUM HIGHLIGHTS KAZAKHSTAN’S PUSH IN AI AND DIGITAL INNOVATION

From Norshazlina Nor Azman

ASTANA (KAZAKHSTAN), Oct 2 (Bernama) -- The Digital Bridge Forum 2025, which kicks off Thursday (Oct 2), aims to showcase Kazakhstan's growing role in digital innovation while positioning itself as a hub for artificial intelligence (AI) and emerging technologies.

According to the official Digital Bridge Forum website, the three-day annual event, running until Oct 4, is the largest international tech forum in Central Asia.

The forum, organised by Kazakhstan's newly established Artificial Intelligence and Digital Development Ministry together with Astana Hub and the Akimat of Astana, was held at the EXPO International Exhibition Centre, bringing together government officials, technology leaders, investors and startups from more than 100 countries.

Distinguished guests at the opening included Hungary's President Tamas Sulyok, as well as Kazakhstan's President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev.

This year's edition carries the theme 'Generative Nation,' reflecting Kazakhstan's ambition to transition from being a consumer to a producer of digital solutions.

Among the headline speakers are the UAE Minister of AI, Omar Al Olama, the CEO and founder of Telegram, Pavel Durov, and Arsen Tomsky, the founder and CEO of inDrive, a global e-hailing company.

A key highlight is the launch of alem.ai, an international AI centre designed to promote research, support startups and expand global cooperation in AI.

The agenda also features the Generative Nation Pitch for student and research projects, alongside the Astana Hub Battle, where over 100 startups from Central Asia will compete before regional and international investors.

The event will conclude with the Digital Bridge Awards 2025, recognising achievements in AI solutions, GovTech, EdTech and breakthrough innovations.

Exhibitions and Startup Alley showcase more than 500 companies across fintech, health tech, agritech, cybersecurity and sustainable technologies.

The forum, which is expected to attract 67,000 participants, 1,000 speakers, and 500 investors, underscores Kazakhstan's bid to position Astana as a digital hub linking Europe and Asia.

-- BERNAMA