AI Council of Tajikistan and UK’s DSIT Discuss Partnership on AI and Green Digital Infrastructure

London, 20 May 2025 — A high-level meeting took place at the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) between the Artificial Intelligence Council under the Ministry of Industry and New Technologies of the Republic of Tajikistan and the FCDO’s Directorate for Science, Innovation and Technology. The discussions focused on expanding collaboration in the field of artificial intelligence (AI).

During the meeting, the Tajik delegation introduced Area AI, the country’s national artificial intelligence technopark located in Dushanbe and supported by the Ministry of Industry and New Technologies of Tajikistan. Area AI is set to become the first AI hub in Central Asia, integrating education, research laboratories, IT businesses, and green AI infrastructure.

A central point of discussion was the President of Tajikistan’s initiative to establish a global AI self-regulation zone in Central Asia — a concept that underpins a dedicated resolution introduced by Tajikistan at the United Nations General Assembly. This approach advocates for a voluntary, flexible model of AI governance grounded in the principles of sustainability, transparency, and innovation. It aims to position Central Asia as an international "AI sandbox" for the ethical and secure testing and deployment of cutting-edge technologies.

The two sides also explored potential cooperation in the areas of synthetic data, joint research initiatives, and the prospects of attracting UK investment in green digital infrastructure in Tajikistan — including the construction of energy-efficient data centers powered by the country’s vast hydropower potential. With 98% of its electricity generated from renewable sources and home to the world’s tallest dam at the Rogun Hydropower Plant, Tajikistan offers a unique environment for hosting sustainable, world-class computing facilities.

The meeting, held at the Foreign Office in London, marked an important step toward strengthening UK–Tajikistan cooperation in AI, science, and digital transformation.

The Artificial Intelligence Council under the Ministry of Industry and New Technologies of the Republic of Tajikistan extends its sincere gratitude to the Embassy of the Republic of Tajikistan in the United Kingdom in organizing this visit.