Kazakhstan Showcases AI-Driven Urban Development at UN World Urban Forum in Baku

Kazakhstan showcased its AI-driven urban development strategy at the 13th UN World Urban Forum in Baku from May 17-22. Prime Minister Olzhas Bektenov, speaking on behalf of President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, outlined a human-centered approach focused on safety, accessibility, and sustainability, noting that over 63% of the population now lives in cities driving economic growth. The country’s commitment to digital transformation is reflected in its declaration of 2026 as the Year of Digitalization and Artificial Intelligence. Kazakhstan has established a legal framework for AI governance and integrated over 1,200 public services into its digital ecosystem. The launch of the Alem.ai international AI center in Astana and the Asia-Pacific Digital Solutions Center in Almaty underscores its global cooperation on AI initiatives. A flagship project, Alatau City, aims to create a technologically advanced and environmentally sustainable urban hub. The initiative aligns with Kazakhstan’s broader goals to modernize infrastructure and attract international investment through innovation. Climate resilience and water security were central themes, with Bektenov emphasizing the new Constitution’s recognition of environmental protection as a fundamental state value. Kazakhstan proposed establishing an International Water Organization under the UN to address regional water shortages and climate challenges, building on discussions from the recent Regional Ecological Summit. At the Urban Expo exhibition, Kazakhstan’s pavilion featured sustainable city planning, digital urban management, and green infrastructure projects. The Green ID initiative was highlighted for enhancing urban climate resilience through greening projects and eco-friendly public spaces. The pavilion itself incorporated sustainable materials and designs, showcasing Kazakhstan’s vision for cleaner, greener cities. The forum, attended by over 20,000 participants from 100 countries, provided a platform for Kazakhstan to position itself as a leader in AI-driven urban solutions and climate adaptation in Central Asia.