More than 8,000 applications from 125 countries were submitted to the international competition of films created using artificial intelligence, the Astana AI Film Festival. President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev spoke at the opening ceremony. This was reported by Qazaqyia.kz citing Kursiv Media.

Participants from the United States, India, China, South Korea, the United Kingdom, Indonesia, Japan, Brazil, France and other states presented their works. The jury included well-known specialists in the field of art and technology.

Tokayev called the festival a unique project where participants can demonstrate creative abilities and innovative ideas. According to him, the modern era is defined by the development of knowledge, science and innovation, while artificial intelligence is changing all spheres of the world economy.

The president also called the holding of the festival evidence of the development of creative industries in Kazakhstan. He noted that the country is taking measures to form an integral ecosystem in this sphere and to support talented citizens.

Tokayev devoted a separate part of his speech to the security and responsible use of AI. According to him, politicians, scientists and heads of technology companies are concerned about the growing capabilities of artificial intelligence and the risks of its uncontrolled use. At the same time, the president considers the development of these technologies irreversible.

He compared the dual role of technologies to the fire of Prometheus — a symbol of progress and at the same time a destructive force — and cited nuclear energy as an example.

"Therefore, we must give priority attention to security issues and develop common rules of the game for the responsible development and application of artificial intelligence in order to ensure a safe future for the younger generation," Tokayev emphasized.

At the same time, according to the president, it is necessary to unlock the creative potential of new technologies. This is precisely where he sees the main idea of the AI film festival.

Tokayev noted that artificial intelligence expands opportunities for young people and simplifies entry to the film market. In his assessment, small creative teams can already compete with large studios, and it is becoming easier for authors to create films without turning to production companies and seeking sponsors. The president believes this strengthens competition and opens more opportunities for the self-realization of talented people.

"Of course, artificial intelligence will not replace the Creator's spark, but it can become an indispensable tool for everyone who has linked their life with creativity," he said.

The head of state called for making the most effective use of these changes in the interaction of the creative community. He expressed confidence that the festival will open new opportunities for talented and ambitious participants and will contribute to the development of global creative industries.

Speaking about holding the competition in Astana, Tokayev noted that the average age of Kazakhstan's population is 33 years. He characterized Kazakh youth as educated, striving for knowledge, open to new ideas and possessing progressive thinking. The president also named respect for people and rejection of their division on any grounds as qualities inherent in the people of Kazakhstan and, in his opinion, recognized by the world community.

In conclusion, Tokayev thanked the members of the international jury and expressed confidence that participants will be able to exchange experience and subsequently implement joint projects.

Earlier, Kursiv wrote that a pilot project to introduce AI in small-class schools in Kazakhstan is planned to be expanded to 60 schools in January 2027 and to 500 in April. Since September 2026, 10 schools have been participating in it.