Almaty is becoming a key center for technological innovation with the establishment of the Kazakhstan-China Science and Technology Transfer Center. This initiative marks a significant step in international scientific cooperation and the implementation of advanced technologies in Central Asia, particularly in the field of predicting and mitigating natural disasters.
The center has been established with the support of the National Academy of Sciences of Kazakhstan, the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Zhejiang University of Technology, and several high-tech Chinese enterprises. Its primary objective is to address pressing contemporary challenges through artificial intelligence (AI) and spatiotemporal data analysis. The center is expected to serve as a crucial instrument in combating climate threats and optimizing national resources.
Photo: Press service of the National Academy of Sciences of the Republic of Kazakhstan
Renowned global entrepreneur and artificial intelligence expert Kai-Fu Lee has commended Kazakhstan’s potential in implementing IT initiatives and fostering a competitive technological ecosystem. This assessment was made during his meeting with Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev (source).
According to the Akorda press service, “During the meeting with Dr. Kai-Fu Lee, President of Sinovation Ventures’ Artificial Intelligence Institute, the head of state emphasized the strategic importance of adopting advanced technologies. He also noted that the exchange of expertise with leading global specialists contributes to achieving ambitious goals in the sphere of digital transformation.”
Photo: Akorda press service
The Chinese Academy of Sciences has also underscored the necessity of AI in disaster prevention, stating:
"The application of artificial intelligence in disaster forecasting is not merely a trend but an essential response to the challenges of the 21st century."
Given the increasing risks associated with climate change, the integration of such technologies is becoming a matter of national security.
Andranik Hovhannisyan photo: Sputnik Kyrgyzstan news agency
Kazakh regional security and political affairs expert Andranik Hovhannisyan, in an exclusive statement for The Caspian Post, confirmed that active efforts are currently underway in Kazakhstan to integrate AI into various sectors, making the development of artificial intelligence particularly relevant.
"The laboratory’s primary objectives include monitoring and managing water resources, developing early warning systems for natural disasters, and digitizing the agricultural sector. Additionally, there are plans to establish the Alem.ai International Center for Artificial Intelligence in Astana. This center will unite leading IT companies, research laboratories, and educational programs to develop innovative solutions," he stated.
At the same time, Rakhim Oshakbayev, former Vice Minister for Investments and Development of Kazakhstan (2015-March 2016), emphasized that the mere establishment of laboratories and research centers is insufficient. The key issue remains the extent to which artificial intelligence can improve the quality of life in practical terms.
Rakhim Oshakbaev photo: ia-centr.ru
In an interview with The Caspian Post, Oshakbayev noted that AI is becoming a fundamental component of the new technological order. However, the countries of Central Asia face the complex challenge of not only mastering this technology but also ensuring that it yields tangible benefits.
"Artificial intelligence should not be regarded as a superficial trend but should be leveraged to provide concrete solutions in areas such as security, environmental protection, healthcare, and the economy. A relevant example is the Kazakh startup Cerebro AI, which utilizes artificial intelligence to analyze X-ray images and predict strokes. To date, the system has processed over 150,000 cases, significantly enhancing medical diagnostics and patient outcomes," he explained.
Furthermore, artificial intelligence has the potential to enhance the efficiency of public administration, optimizing social policy, healthcare, pensions, and government expenditures. However, at present, these opportunities remain underutilized.
Artificial Intelligence in Disaster Prevention: Accuracy, Speed, and Prediction
A primary focus of the new laboratory will be the development of early warning systems for natural disasters such as floods, landslides, and avalanches. By integrating artificial intelligence with geographic information systems (GIS) and remote sensing technologies, researchers aim to develop effective tools for monitoring and forecasting natural disasters. These advancements will facilitate timely responses and minimize the impact of catastrophes ranging from floods to earthquakes.
Comparable initiatives have already been implemented in various countries:
• Japan has developed AI-based algorithms capable of predicting earthquakes with minute-level precision by analyzing seismic activity.
• The United States employs AI models for hurricane simulations and impact assessments.
• India has implemented an AI-powered monsoon monitoring system, reducing disaster-related casualties by 70% over the past five years.
"Artificial intelligence serves as a window into the future. The earlier a potential threat is identified, the greater the likelihood of saving lives," states Kai-Fu Lee.
Water Management, Agriculture, and Energy: Expanding the Horizons of AI
Beyond disaster prevention, the laboratory will focus on optimizing water resource management and developing smart agriculture solutions. Given that Kazakhstan faces challenges related to water scarcity, artificial intelligence is expected to provide a powerful tool for the precise allocation of water reserves.
According to a professor at Zhejiang University of Technology:
"AI will enable the prediction of droughts, the optimization of irrigation systems, and an increase in agricultural productivity without excessive water consumption."
The experience of the Netherlands demonstrates that the implementation of AI in agriculture can increase productivity by up to 30%. In Kazakhstan, where vast agricultural lands are vulnerable to droughts, such technologies could play a crucial role in ensuring food security.
Energy management is another key focus area. The development of intelligent energy distribution systems will enable Kazakhstan to utilize electricity more efficiently and integrate renewable energy sources into the national grid.
"The integration of AI in the energy sector is a step toward a sustainable future, ensuring that every unit of energy is used optimally," states an analyst from Bloomberg NEF.
AI-based solutions are already being used globally to optimize energy consumption, enhance distribution efficiency, and improve grid reliability. These initiatives align with worldwide efforts to transition toward sustainable energy sources and reduce environmental impact.
The establishment of the artificial intelligence center in Almaty represents not only a scientific milestone but also a strategic investment in the future of Kazakhstan. The integration of AI, smart technologies, and international collaboration has the potential to position Kazakhstan as a regional leader in addressing climate challenges.
However, the implementation of artificial intelligence requires a cautious approach, ongoing monitoring, and strict adherence to safety regulations.
"Intelligent technologies are akin to nuclear energy: they can provide light and warmth, but if mismanaged, they can lead to disaster," warns British digital technology expert Chris Anderson.
Kazakhstan and China, in creating this joint center, must not only develop innovative solutions but also establish robust mechanisms to mitigate potential risks. Only through such measures can artificial intelligence become a genuine ally of humanity rather than a source of new threats. The primary challenge now lies in the effective execution of these ambitious plans, ensuring that Kazakhstan fully capitalizes on the opportunities presented by the technological revolution.
