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Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev unveiled an ambitious reform agenda Tuesday aimed at transforming Kazakhstan into a fully digital nation within three years, announcing the creation of a new Ministry of Artificial Intelligence and Digital Development to spearhead the initiative.
In his annual state-of-the-nation address titled "Kazakhstan in the Age of Artificial Intelligence: Key Tasks and Solutions Through Digital Transformation," Tokayev outlined a comprehensive modernization program spanning government restructuring, financial innovation, and infrastructure development.
The new ministry will be headed by a deputy prime minister-level official and tasked with positioning Kazakhstan as a leader in the artificial intelligence era. Tokayev also ordered the rapid adoption of a Digital Code encompassing artificial intelligence, big data, and the platform economy.
The president announced the establishment of a State Digital Assets Fund to create a strategic cryptocurrency reserve, alongside plans for a new Banking Law by year's end to strengthen the fintech sector.
Tokayev criticized excessive bureaucracy in the current investment system, saying it undermines efficiency. He called for developing a new investment attraction model and creating a Regional Investment Attractiveness Index, with the prime minister personally overseeing the process.
In transportation, Tokayev highlighted the near-completion of the Dostyk-Moynty double-track railway, a strategic component of the East-West corridor. He ordered the implementation of a Smart Freight Digital Customs and Logistics Platform by October to ensure equal private sector access.
Kazakhstan also plans to establish a national cargo airline as part of its goal to become Eurasia's leading aviation hub.
On international affairs, Tokayev reaffirmed Kazakhstan's multi-vector diplomacy approach, expressing satisfaction with positive developments in U.S.-Russia talks and the Azerbaijan-Armenia peace process.
He emphasized continued cooperation with China, Türkiye, Central Asian nations, the European Union, and the United States.
The president reiterated calls for UN Security Council reform, announcing Kazakhstan would present its views to the UN General Assembly.
Tokayev proposed transitioning to a unicameral parliament, with the initiative to be put to a referendum in 2027. He stressed the process must be transparent and consultative.
Other domestic priorities include granting special status to Alatau City, adopting a New Urban Development Code by year's end, creating digital land resource maps, and implementing strategies for food security and water management. Environmental initiatives focus on restoring the Aral Sea and protecting the Caspian Sea.
The reform package includes overhauling the social assistance system, strengthening pensions, expanding healthcare services, and improving financial literacy. To prepare younger generations for the AI era, Tokayev announced plans to integrate artificial intelligence into school curricula and expand digital education in rural areas.
Concluding his address, the president emphasized that principles of law, order, and patriotism would guide Kazakhstan through global changes.
"As long as our people remain united and internal stability is strong, we will overcome all difficulties and successfully pass every test," Tokayev said.
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