Kazakhstan EAEU Chairmanship 2026: Ambitions for AI and Global Logistics Hub
Kazakhstan assumes the EAEU chairmanship on Jan 1, 2026, with a focus on AI, logistics, and digital integration. Explore President Tokayev's vision and the challenges ahead.
Can a geopolitical bridge function without enough power to light it up? On January 1, 2026, Kazakhstan officially took on the rotating chairmanship of the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU). President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev wasted no time, proposing a high-tech agenda focused on artificial intelligence, digitalization, and global dialogue to redefine the union's second decade.
Kazakhstan EAEU Chairmanship 2026: A Tech-First Agenda
According to The Diplomat, Tokayev characterized AI as a "new tool for the development of economic integration." He argued that the world has entered an era of technological inequality, making it vital to turn new technologies into a key factor for Eurasian growth. This vision aligns perfectly with Astana's domestic goal of becoming a fully-fledged digital country.
Cargo should move across the EAEU member states as quickly as possible, without unnecessary delays or bureaucratic red tape.
Tokayev also addressed internal friction, noting that customs regulations shouldn't be used to exert pressure on fellow member states. He suggested using AI to monitor legislative initiatives, potentially automating the oversight of trade compliance to reduce political leverage within the bloc.
Geopolitical Balancing and External Expansion
The EAEU was established on January 1, 2015. Since Russia's 2022 invasion of Ukraine, member states have faced increased scrutiny. While countries like Armenia have seen relations with Moscow sour, they haven't abandoned the union. Instead, they're looking outward. The bloc recently secured trade deals with Mongolia (April 2025), the UAE (June 2025), and Indonesia (December 2025).
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