“A unique, unparalleled project“: Tokayev spoke at the opening of the Astana AI Film Festival

Tengrinews.kz — Kassym-Jomart Tokayev attended the opening ceremony of the Astana AI Film Festival, citing Akorda.
The Head of State spoke at the inaugural Astana AI Film Festival, the first international competition for films created using artificial intelligence. In his speech, the President highlighted the exclusive nature of the festival.

"The Astana AI Film Festival is a unique, one-of-a-kind project where proactive, educated, innovative, and creative citizens demonstrate their talents. It is a competition of sharp minds and bold initiatives. The modern era is a time of knowledge, science, and innovation. Artificial intelligence is bringing fundamental changes to all sectors of the global economy. In short, technological progress has reached a truly global scale," Kassym-Jomart Tokayev stated.

The Head of State described the Astana AI Film Festival as clear evidence of the rapid development of creative industries in Kazakhstan. According to him, concrete measures are being taken to form a comprehensive ecosystem in this field, with talented citizens receiving extensive support.
Kassym-Jomart Tokayev further emphasized the need for the responsible use of artificial intelligence.

"Today, as technology develops at an unprecedented pace, many politicians, scientists, and tech leaders are expressing concern over the growing capabilities of AI and the risks of its uncontrolled use. At the same time, one thing is clear: this trend is irreversible. I believe no one will argue with that. Throughout human history, Prometheus's fire has been viewed simultaneously as a symbol of progress and a source of destructive power. Nuclear energy serves as a similar example. Therefore, we must prioritize safety and develop common rules of the game for the responsible development and application of AI to ensure a safe future for the younger generation. At the same time, we must do everything possible to unlock the vast creative potential of future technologies. This is the core idea behind the AI film festival," he emphasized.

Photo by the Akorda press service
According to the Head of State, the new capabilities of artificial intelligence open wide horizons for the development of youth potential.

"Today, even small creative teams can compete effectively with major studios. Creative individuals and film crews no longer need to knock on the doors of production companies or search for sponsors to produce films. Market entry has become significantly easier. On one hand, this increases competition; on the other, it clears a path for self-realization for truly talented people. This is a qualitative shift that we must use as effectively as possible within a united creative community. Of course, artificial intelligence will not replace the spark of the Creator, but it can become an indispensable tool for everyone who has dedicated their life to creativity," the President said.

Concluding his speech, the Head of State addressed the participants of the Astana AI Film Festival, expressing confidence that the project would open new opportunities for talented and ambitious individuals and contribute to the growth of global creative industries.
Photo by the Akorda press service

"Hosting such a large-scale international event in Astana is no coincidence. Kazakhstan is a country of young people, with a median age of 33. I consider Kazakhstan's youth to be educated, knowledge-seeking, open to new ideas, and progressive in their thinking. A kind and respectful attitude toward all people, and the rejection of discrimination based on any grounds, are noble qualities inherent to our people. I believe this is well known and recognized by the international community. For instance, this festival received over 8,000 applications from 125 countries. Citizens of the USA, India, China, South Korea, Great Britain, Indonesia, Japan, Brazil, France, and other nations submitted their work. In this regard, I would like to specifically note that the jury includes world-renowned experts in art and technology, for which I am sincerely grateful. I am confident that the participants will find opportunities to exchange experience and implement joint projects in the future," Kassym-Jomart Tokayev concluded.

The opening ceremony also featured speeches from Almas Zhali, founder of the Astana AI Film Festival; Timur Turlov, CEO of Freedom Holding Corp; Balaji Srinivasan, founder of Network School; festival participant Jamin Tasker; and Audrey Azoulay, Chair of the Astana AI Film Festival Jury.