‘First in the world’: Tokayev signals new era with Astana AI Film Fest

Kazakhstan launches world’s first ‘Pure AI’ film awards / Photo: Akorda, photo editor: Adelina Mamedova

During an awards ceremony for the winners of the Alem.ai Battle and AI Governance Cup competitions on April 24, Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev pointed to the upcoming Astana AI Film Festival, set to take place this fall.

Read also: Major US comic-con restricts AI art after creator backlash.

Tokayev said the festival is expected to be the first event of its kind globally and will showcase how artificial intelligence is reshaping the creative industry.

According to the president, AI is transforming the nature of creative work by expanding opportunities for artists and lowering barriers to entry. At the same time, he acknowledged concerns about its long-term impact.

Kassym-Jomart Tokayev launched the countdown to the 2026 Games of the Future / Photo: t.me/aqorda_resmi, photo editor: Serikzhan Kovlanbayev

He said artificial intelligence is fundamentally changing creativity, enabling new forms of self-expression while raising concerns that it could disrupt or even undermine the industry in its current form.

Tokayev added that hosting such a festival is important for keeping pace with global technological and cultural shifts, as Kazakhstan aims to position itself as an active participant in the evolving AI landscape.