China and five Central Asian countries are joining forces to enhance technological collaboration, with a keen focus on artificial intelligence (AI) and energy innovation.
In a landmark move, China, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan have signed the Astana Declaration at the China-Central Asia Summit. This agreement outlines a shared vision to foster mutually beneficial partnerships in science and technology.
The six nations agreed to strengthen dialogue on scientific development, regularly share information, and promote the transfer and commercialization of research. Their goal is clear: drive regional economic and social development through innovation.
Beyond the broader tech collaboration, the declaration emphasizes joint efforts in agriculture and energy. By applying water-saving, green, and efficient technologies, the countries aim to boost these vital sectors. To support these initiatives, China plans to establish three cooperation centers focusing on poverty reduction, education exchange, and desertification prevention and control, along with a platform to facilitate smooth trade.
Already putting the declaration into action, Kazakhstan has inked agreements with Chinese companies on projects involving high-voltage direct current transmission, digital energy, hydropower plants, solar energy, hydrogen technologies, and joint research and development.
“Chinese energy companies are major investors in Kazakhstan’s energy system,” said Ilyas Bakytzhan, Kazakhstan’s Vice Minister of Energy. “We aim to deepen our relationship by creating joint centers for high-quality energy planning, establishing manufacturing companies to produce renewable energy components locally, and investing together in energy projects within Kazakhstan.”
Artificial intelligence stands out as a key enabler in transforming the energy sector. “AI models allow us to plan electricity generation from renewable sources with high precision,” Bakytzhan explained. “It also enables accurate planning of electricity consumption by industries and households.”
The declaration commits the countries to collaborate on advancing AI development. China welcomes all parties to join the “Group of Friends of International Cooperation on Artificial Intelligence Capacity Building.” They also expressed support for the UN resolutions on strengthening international cooperation in AI and recognized the significance of Tajikistan’s proposed resolution on AI’s role in sustainable development in Central Asia.
Moreover, the nations emphasized the importance of strengthening regional cybersecurity to ensure safe and effective AI development.
