OMM Redaksiyası
Business representatives and experts in Central Asian countries have proposed strengthening digital integration among Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan and Turkmenistan. The aim is to make it easier for technology companies to operate in a regional market home to more than 80 million people.
The proposals envisage bringing the five countries’ digital regulations closer together. The areas concerned include electronic documents, digital identification, personal data protection, cybersecurity and artificial intelligence.
Proposals discussed in Astana
The issue was discussed at a regional round table in Astana dedicated to integrating Central Asian countries into the digital agenda. The meeting took place as participants explored ways to turn digital cooperation in the region into practical mechanisms for cross-border business.
Greater compatibility between regulations and digital systems could make it easier for technology companies to enter neighboring markets. Instead of adapting to different legal and digital requirements in each country, companies could use mutually recognized tools and compatible systems.
Mutual recognition of electronic documents
One of the initiative’s main areas is the mutual recognition of electronic documents and digital identification. The proposals also call for aligning rules on personal data and cybersecurity, as well as establishing common principles for the responsible use of artificial intelligence.
From an economic perspective, the initiative aims to reduce administrative barriers as technology companies expand across the region. A more connected digital market could make Central Asia more attractive to global technology companies, cloud service providers, telecommunications operators and investors.
Ethical code on artificial intelligence being prepared
Artificial intelligence is a separate area of the initiative. The preparation of an Ethical Code on the responsible use of artificial intelligence in Central Asia has been proposed. The document is expected to establish common principles without creating a supranational regulatory body.
The proposal does not introduce mandatory certification or accreditation for artificial intelligence systems. National legislation will remain the top priority in each country.
The proposals are expected to be included in the 2027 B5+1 Regional Business Agenda. For now, however, they are recommendations from businesses and experts, rather than mandatory rules adopted by the governments of the five countries.
The initiative’s main challenge will be to turn broad support for regional digitalization into systems that operate beyond national borders while preserving each country’s regulatory framework.
