ABU DHABI (ALETIHAD)
Presight has announced the launch of its first regional Research and Development (R&D) Laboratory in Central Asia, located at the International Artificial Intelligence Centre, Alem.ai, in Astana.
The announcement was made during the official visit of President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev of Kazakhstan and President Ilham Aliyev of Azerbaijan to the Alem.ai centre, a statement from Presight said.
The new facility will focus on developing and localising advanced solutions in artificial intelligence, data analytics, and digital governance, supporting Kazakhstan’s objectives for technological sovereignty and innovation-driven growth.
Magzhan Kenesbai, Chief Growth Officer of Presight, announced the launch, highlighting the company’s expanding role in Kazakhstan’s AI and digital transformation landscape. “Kazakhstan is rapidly becoming a regional hub for artificial intelligence and advanced analytics,” said Kenesbai. “Through our R&D Lab and large-scale projects such as the Astana Smart City, Presight aims to foster technological innovation, empower local talent and apply AI where it matters most.”
As part of his remarks, Kenesbai presented an update on the Astana Smart City project, a major public-private partnership between Presight and the Akimat of Astana.
Zhaslan Madiyev, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Artificial Intelligence and Digital Development of Kazakhstan, welcomed the establishment of Presight’s R&D Lab, calling it an important addition to the country’s innovation ecosystem.
“The launch of Presight’s R&D Lab marks an important milestone in strengthening Kazakhstan’s AI ecosystem,” he said. “It will help build local expertise, facilitate technology transfer, and accelerate the adoption of AI across key sectors of the economy.”
Presight has been actively contributing to Kazakhstan’s digital agenda, including the development of the country’s first Command Centre for Government Analytics and Decision-Making. The system supports the government’s AI-Driven Governance vision by enabling real-time monitoring, analysis, and management of national and municipal processes.
Beyond Kazakhstan, Presight is also deepening cooperation in Azerbaijan. Kenesbai noted the company’s successful collaborations with the Ministry of Science and Education and the Ministry of Digital Development and Transport in Azerbaijan, where it is deploying AI solutions to support national digital strategies.
During the visit, the Presidents of Kazakhstan and Azerbaijan were briefed on the practical applications of AI in public administration, urban management, and national digital infrastructure, demonstrating the growing regional collaboration in AI innovation.