On September 30, the second day of the C5+1 AI Conference is taking place in Astana, focusing on the development of artificial intelligence and digital cooperation between Central Asian nations (Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan) and the United States. The forum opened on September 29 at the Hilton Astana, bringing together representatives from government agencies, technology companies, and experts.

According to the program, on the first day, participants discussed the development of AI and digital infrastructure, national AI strategies, digital transformation and secure connectivity, as well as the application of AI in agriculture, energy, logistics, and the critical minerals sector.

The second day focuses on workforce development for the digital economy, AI startups, venture capital investment, and collaboration between universities and research centers. A dedicated session hosted by the Silkroad Innovation Hub and MIT examines Central Asia's readiness for AI adoption. The agenda also includes cross-border data exchange and digital trade. The conference will conclude with a discussion among the heads of Central Asian delegations regarding priorities and next steps, as well as a session on prospects for cooperation between the region and the U.S. in the fields of AI and new technologies.

Technological priorities are outlined in the C5+1 Joint Statement on Intent regarding economic cooperation. The document provides for support for IT startups, cooperation in AI research and education, and the development of digital services, telecommunications infrastructure, and data centers.

The C5+1 format has served since 2015 as a platform for dialogue between Central Asia and the United States on issues of economics, security, and regional cooperation.