President Tokayev Highlights Global Rise of Astana AI Film Festival

Astana, The Gulf Observer: President of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev has highlighted the growing international significance of the Astana AI Film Festival, describing the event as a pioneering initiative showcasing the transformative potential of artificial intelligence in cinema and the creative industries.

Speaking at a Teachers’ Day ceremony at the Akorda Presidential Palace, Tokayev said Astana had hosted several major events dedicated to artificial intelligence, including the AI & Digital Bridge 2026 Forum, a meeting of the Council for Artificial Intelligence Development and the inaugural Astana AI Film Festival.

The President noted that Kazakhstan had achieved significant progress in artificial intelligence but stressed that rapid advances in AI and emerging technologies required continued efforts and adaptation.

He paid particular attention to the Astana AI Film Festival, which was held in the Kazakh capital for the first time and demonstrated new possibilities for applying AI in filmmaking.

According to Tokayev, the festival represented a cutting-edge and innovative event that highlighted how artificial intelligence is transforming the traditional filmmaking process. He said new technologies were enabling filmmakers to produce full-fledged films without necessarily relying on government institutions, producers or sponsors.

The President said the festival had therefore attracted international attention and had “gone truly global,” reflecting the growing worldwide interest in AI-powered cinema.

The Astana AI Film Festival was held from October 1 to 3, bringing together filmmakers, technology experts and representatives of the global creative industries. The festival received 8,067 film submissions from 125 countries and regions, underscoring its broad international reach.

Tokayev had earlier emphasized that artificial intelligence was creating new opportunities for young and creative people, allowing smaller teams to compete with major studios and lowering barriers to entry into the film industry. He also stressed the importance of ensuring the safe and responsible development and use of AI.

The President expressed confidence that the festival would help create new opportunities for talented filmmakers and contribute to the further development of global creative industries.