NVIDIA CEO Jensen Huang has proposed transforming Kazakhstan into a global hub for physical artificial intelligence (AI), reflecting the country’s aspirations to strengthen its position in AI and digital technologies. During a meeting with Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev in Astana on October 23, Huang discussed expanding cooperation in AI and digital innovation.
President Tokayev emphasized Kazakhstan’s ambition to become an AI-driven nation, underscoring the importance of the partnership with NVIDIA. He identified artificial intelligence and digitalization as national priorities and announced that 2026 will be designated as the Year of Digitalization and Artificial Intelligence in Kazakhstan. Tokayev also expressed approval of NVIDIA’s collaboration with local technology firm Higgsfield.
Huang praised Kazakhstan’s developmental goals and proposed the nation as a center for physical AI, which integrates AI with real-world systems like robots, autonomous machines, and industrial equipment. He pointed out that Kazakhstan’s energy resources and a skilled workforce in science, mathematics, and technology provide a strong foundation for AI development.
The meeting also highlighted the progress in NVIDIA’s partnerships with local technology businesses, with Huang describing the collaboration as the start of a long-term relationship. In recognition of his contributions to the development of AI in Kazakhstan, President Tokayev awarded Huang the Order of Dostyk.