NVIDIA CEO Jensen Huang has proposed transforming Kazakhstan into a global hub for physical artificial intelligence (AI), a move that aligns with the country’s ambitions to advance in digital technologies. This proposal was discussed during Huang’s meeting with Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev in Astana on October 23, focusing on strengthening cooperation in AI and digital innovation.
President Tokayev emphasized the significance of this partnership with NVIDIA, reaffirming Kazakhstan’s commitment to becoming an AI-driven nation. He noted that Kazakhstan has designated 2026 as the Year of Digitalisation and Artificial Intelligence, underlining the national priority of advancing in these fields. Additionally, Tokayev expressed his support for NVIDIA’s collaboration with the local technology company, Higgsfield.
Huang praised Kazakhstan’s aspirations for development and proposed positioning the country as a center for physical AI, which integrates artificial intelligence with real-world systems like robots, autonomous machines, and industrial equipment. He identified Kazakhstan’s energy resources and the availability of skilled professionals in science, mathematics, and technology as crucial elements for successful AI development, highlighting the country’s potential in these areas.
During the discussions, Huang also acknowledged the progress made in NVIDIA’s collaboration with local technology businesses, describing it as the beginning of a promising, long-term partnership. Following the meeting, President Tokayev awarded Huang the Order of Dostyk, recognizing his contributions to the development of artificial intelligence in Kazakhstan.