Kazakhstan and international investors are planning to build an ecosystem for artificial intelligence infrastructure and advanced technologies.

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Artificial Intelligence and Digital Development Zhaslan Madiyev signed a memorandum on strategic cooperation involving the Astana International Financial Centre (AIFC), Kazakhtelecom, Balaji Srinivasan’s Network School, Shervin Pishevar, and technology and investment organizations including Sofreh Capital, Edison and Alpha, according to the Kazakh Ministry of Artificial Intelligence and Digital Development.

The agreement outlines plans to create an integrated technology ecosystem combining computing capacity, international investment, engineering expertise and industrial capabilities.

A central part of the partnership will be the Digital Silk Road project, with Sofreh Capital, founded by Shervin Pishevar, joining as one of the founding partners of the planned joint venture.

The project is expected to integrate multiple layers of AI infrastructure, including data centers, space-based computing systems, satellites and the Trans-Caspian fiber-optic cable.

The planned cooperation could also expand into robotics and Physical AI, space technologies, new energy solutions, quantum computing and critical materials.

Another priority will be the industrial application of AI. The partners plan to establish pilot sites and develop facilities for robot assembly and the production of components.

Madiyev said combining Kazakhstan’s energy resources with its computing, telecommunications and industrial infrastructure could help the country develop advanced technologies and intelligent products for global markets.

The partnership also envisions expanding the Trans-Caspian fiber-optic cable network and data center infrastructure, with Kazakhtelecom expected to play a key role in these projects.

The parties plan to agree on a roadmap for implementing the memorandum within 100 days of its signing.

The memorandum provides a framework for future cooperation, while individual projects, investment amounts and participation terms will be defined through separate agreements.