CAREC Institute Hosts Policy Dialogue on AI for Sustainable Development

On 24 September, the CAREC Institute held an online policy dialogue titled “AI for Sustainable Development: Fostering Industry Growth and Inclusive Outcomes.” The event brought together policymakers, industry leaders, academics, and experts from across the region to explore how artificial intelligence (AI) is reshaping industries, strengthening economic resilience, and advancing social equity.

Opening the discussion, Dr. Kuat Akizhanov, Deputy Director Two of the CAREC Institute, highlighted the importance of leveraging AI for the benefit of all. He said, “We must ensure that the benefits of AI are harnessed not just for economic growth, but also for sustainable and inclusive development that leaves no one behind.”

Throughout the session, experts from the CAREC Institute, Asian Development Bank Institute, iFLYTEK Company Limited, South Kazakhstan Pedagogical University and Center for Agricultural and Rural Development at Zhejiang University shared their perspectives on a range of timely topics. These included the role of AI in driving innovation and inclusion, recent developments and applications of AI across industries, and the impact of national strategies such as Made in China 2025 on green innovation. A case study on digital agriculture in Zhejiang Province, China, further illustrated how AI technologies are being put into practice.

Participants exchanged ideas on effective policy measures and best practices, with a particular focus on how AI can be adopted in ways that promote both economic efficiency and inclusiveness. The exchange underscored the importance of collaboration in harnessing AI to support sustainable development goals.

Dr. Ilhom Abdulloev, Capacity Building Chief at the CAREC Institute, concluded the event by noting that the discussions were both practical and inspiring. He added, “Today’s dialogue offered valuable perspectives on how AI is driving innovation, improving economic performance, and supporting the region’s transition to a greener economy.”