Translated with AI
On April 27, 2026, in Bishkek, the Director of the Agency for Innovation and Digital Technologies under the President of the Republic of Tajikistan participated in and spoke at the Fifth Meeting of the Ministers of Information and Communication Technologies of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization Member States. This was reported by the press service of the Agency for Innovation and Digital Technologies.
During the presentation, it was noted that the Strategy for the Development of Artificial Intelligence in the Republic of Tajikistan through 2040 was adopted as the first strategic document of its kind in the Central Asian region. The document envisages the application of artificial intelligence technologies in public administration, healthcare, agriculture, environmental protection, and information security.
It was also emphasized that IT Park Dushanbe functions as a development center for startups and technology companies, creating favorable conditions for entrepreneurs and young professionals. Specifically, this includes tax and customs incentives, modern infrastructure, and educational programs.
In conclusion, the Tajik side proposed that the Shanghai Cooperation Organization member states consider a number of initiatives, including the creation of a register of best practices in the field of information and communications technology and artificial intelligence, the development of a coordinated legal framework for the application and regulation of artificial intelligence, and the inclusion of issues of digital connectivity and data exchange between data centers.
Overall, the Republic of Tajikistan confirmed its readiness to further expand cooperation in the field of digitalization and the development of innovative technologies and called on the countries of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization to implement the proposed initiatives.
The Fifth Meeting also included an International Forum on Artificial Intelligence, attended by the Director of the Agency for Innovation and Digital Technologies under the President of the Republic of Tajikistan.
During the forum, it was noted that artificial intelligence is becoming a key area of digital economic development and plays a significant role in improving public administration and enhancing the efficiency of public service delivery. It was emphasized that by 2030, the use of such technologies could significantly improve public sector efficiency and reduce operating costs.
The Agency Director noted that the Republic of Tajikistan, under the leadership of President Emomali Rahmon, is consistently implementing a policy of digital development and the introduction of artificial intelligence technologies.
It was also emphasized that, at the initiative of the Republic of Tajikistan, the UN General Assembly adopted a special resolution, "The Role of Artificial Intelligence in Creating New Opportunities for Sustainable Development in Central Asia."
The document provides for the creation of a Regional Artificial Intelligence Center in Dushanbe, which will coordinate joint programs for the implementation of relevant technologies in Central Asian countries.
Participation in the forum is seen as an important step in strengthening cooperation among Shanghai Cooperation Organization member states in the development of artificial intelligence, sharing experiences, and creating a unified digital space.
