Almaty has taken center stage in the global tech race as the inaugural GITEX AI Kazakhstan concluded its first day, bringing together governments, investors and leading tech firms in what organizers describe as Central Asia’s most ambitious AI-focused event to date.

Hosted by the Kazakh Ministry of Artificial Intelligence and Digital Development in partnership with Astana Hub and the Almaty city administration, the summit is positioning the country as an emerging digital powerhouse in the region, The Caspian Post reports via The Fintech Times.

Held under the patronage of President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, the event marks a milestone for Kazakhstan’s growing innovation ecosystem, with packed exhibition halls and high-level discussions dominating the opening day.

Organizers say more than 336 technology companies and startups are participating, alongside over 100 investors actively seeking new opportunities in artificial intelligence, fintech, and digital infrastructure.

The event has also drawn more than 200 speakers from over 50 countries, making it one of the largest international tech gatherings ever held in Central Asia. Global executives and founders used the platform to explore partnerships and showcase emerging technologies aimed at reshaping the digital economy.

A key highlight of the summit was the second meeting of Kazakhstan’s Council for AI Development, held as a closed-door session during the conference’s opening day. The meeting was chaired by President Tokayev and focused on accelerating national AI strategy and digital transformation.

Deputy Prime Minister for Artificial Intelligence and Digital Development Zhaslan Madiyev also participated, underscoring the government’s direct involvement in shaping the country’s AI agenda.

As the summit continues, Kazakhstan’s leadership is signaling a clear ambition: to transform Almaty into a regional hub for artificial intelligence, startups, and global tech investment, positioning the country more firmly on the world digital map.