NVIDIA CEO Jensen Huang has proposed transforming Kazakhstan into a global hub for physical artificial intelligence (AI), a vision that aligns with the country’s strategic focus on digital innovation. During a meeting in Astana on October 23 with Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, Huang discussed expanding cooperation in AI and digital technologies, highlighting Kazakhstan’s potential due to its energy resources and skilled workforce in science, mathematics, and technology.
President Tokayev emphasized the importance of this partnership with NVIDIA, reaffirming Kazakhstan’s ambition to become an AI-driven nation. He noted that the year 2026 will be designated as the Year of Digitalisation and Artificial Intelligence in Kazakhstan, marking a significant national priority. The president also welcomed NVIDIA’s collaboration with local technology company Higgsfield as a step towards realizing this ambition.
Huang praised Kazakhstan’s development goals and proposed that the country could become a center for physical AI, which integrates artificial intelligence with tangible systems such as robots, autonomous machines, and industrial equipment. He expressed confidence in Kazakhstan’s ability to contribute significantly to AI development, given its existing resources and capabilities.
Progress in NVIDIA’s collaboration with local technology businesses was also highlighted by Huang, who described the partnership as the beginning of a long-term collaboration. The meeting between Huang and Tokayev underscores the mutual commitment to advancing AI technologies and fostering innovation in Kazakhstan.
In recognition of his contributions to the development of artificial intelligence in Kazakhstan, President Tokayev awarded Jensen Huang the Order of Dostyk. This honor signifies the importance of Huang’s role and the potential impact of NVIDIA’s involvement in Kazakhstan’s digital transformation journey.