Kazakh President emphasized the role of digitalization in the modern development of the country, El.kz reports with reference to Akorda.
"You know, I pay special attention to the issues of digitalization and innovation. Our strategic task is to turn Kazakhstan into an IT country."
The President noted that Kazakhstan is already a leader in the field of e-government and fintech.
With the growing export of IT services, which has grown fivefold over the past year and may reach $500 million by the end of this year, the President has set a new task for the Government:
"The new task of the Government is to bring the export of IT services to one billion dollars by 2026."
Kassym-Jomart Tokayev stressed the importance of investing in artificial intelligence technologies: "The use of artificial intelligence technologies requires special attention. Our country can make a qualitative leap towards a knowledge economy." He also stressed the need for cooperation with international companies, training qualified specialists and attracting investment in the construction of large data centers.
Tokayev called on various public and private entities to develop a holistic industry document that would enshrine the guiding principles of digitalization at the legislative level.
The Head of State stressed the importance of the new Law "On Science and Technology Policy", which is currently being prepared:
"It is important that the bill reflects the logic of economic development based on science and innovation." He also focused on the need for effective support for private initiatives aimed at creating an innovation infrastructure, and stressed the importance of venture financing for innovative projects.
The President, in turn, stated the need to expand innovative development beyond Astana and Almaty:
"During my trips to the regions, I always meet with talented and creative citizens. It is important to create conditions for the realization of their potential."
He proposed to use regional universities as a basis for creating an innovation ecosystem in regional centers and actively apply the successful experience of Astana Hub.