By Diplomacy Journal Lee Kap-soo

The International Conference on Artificial Intelligence, AI Conf 2025, held on  Oct. 25, 2025, successfully concluded in Dushanbe, solidifying Tajikistan's position as a key player in Central Asia’s technological and sustainable development.

The event convened representatives from government, technology companies, international organizations, and venture capital funds.

The conference served as a platform to underscore the country's strategic commitment to AI development, which is seen as crucial for achieving sustainable economic, social, and technological goals.

Khokim Kholikzoda, First Deputy Prime Minister of the Republic of Tajikistan, addressed the attendees, highlighting the country's pioneering efforts in the region:
• Pioneering Regional Strategy: Tajikistan is the first country in Central Asia to adopt a comprehensive AI development framework: the Strategy for the Development of Artificial Intelligence through 2040, established by a Government decree in 2022.
• Global Recognition: This year, Tajikistan successfully spearheaded a special UN General Assembly resolution, "The Role of Artificial Intelligence in Creating New Opportunities for Sustainable Development in Central Asia," strengthening its role as a regional AI pioneer with global significance.
• Planned Regional Hub: In a significant move, the establishment of a Central Asian Center for Artificial Intelligence is planned in Dushanbe, aiming to foster regional cooperation and innovation.

Deputy Prime Minister Kholikzoda also detailed substantial progress in implementing the national AI strategy:
• Talent Development: The country established an Academy of Artificial Intelligence and has already trained over 750 young specialists.
• Startup Ecosystem: Over 10 national startups have been created, with most successfully entering international markets.
• Educational Integration: The "artificial intelligence" specialty has been included in the curricula of 10 universities nationwide, alongside the launch of the "Artificial Intelligence Lessons in 100 General Education Schools" project.
• Innovation Zone: The government supported the creation of the Artificial Intelligence Free Employment Zone in Dushanbe as a special innovation hub.

Mr. Kholikzoda reiterated the global importance of AI, noting its transformative impact across all sectors, including healthcare, education, agriculture, energy, and public administration.

"According to international experts, artificial intelligence could make a significant contribution to global gross domestic product growth by 2030. Countries that lay the political, economic, and humanitarian foundation for the development of artificial intelligence today will find themselves at the forefront of global development tomorrow," he stated.

The successful hosting of AI Conf 2025 and the ambitious plans announced confirm Tajikistan's commitment to harnessing the power of the digital revolution to drive its future and lead regional AI initiatives.