This week in Astana and beyond, Qazinform News Agency presents a roundup of the top headlines that shaped the past seven days in Kazakhstan. 1. Astana hosts Aqaba Process summit on AI security The Aqaba Process is an international initiative aimed at combating terrorism and violent extremism, launched by Jordan’s King Abdullah II bin Al Hussein in 2015.
The topic of Summit is Artificial Intelligence Security. 2. King Abdullah II of Jordan signals intent to expand ties with Kazakhstan King Abdullah II expressed his sincere appreciation to Kassym-Jomart Tokayev for jointly organizing a new round of meetings under the Aqaba Process.
The King of Jordan reaffirmed his interest in expanding cooperation with Kazakhstan on regional security, as well as in countering terrorism and extremism. 3. President of Tajikistan arrives in Kazakhstan for official visit Summit-level talks are scheduled for November 5–7.
The heads of state will discuss strengthening strategic partnership and allied relations between Kazakhstan and Tajikistan. 4. Atyrau oil refinery introduces AI-powered system to monitor hazardous work Under the new system, permits for repair, excavation, electrical, hot work and gas-hazardous operations are prepared and approved electronically.
An AI-powered assistant checks whether work permits have been completed correctly, identifies potential omissions in safety measures and provides recommendations based on the refinery's internal guidelines. 5. Kazakhstan’s Data Center Valley project could generate $3.1 billion in annual export revenue Kazakhstan’s Data Center Valley project in Pavlodar region could generate up to $3.1 billion in annual export revenue, with total investment estimated at $115 billion.
The first phase includes three data centers with a combined capacity of 304 MW, while Kazakhstan aims to expand the project's total capacity to 1 GW by 2029. 6. Rare Saka-era gold bear figurine unearthed at archaeological site in Almaty