On 16 July 2026, a side event entitled “From AI Divide to AI Dividend: Practical Pathways for South-South and Triangular Cooperation on Sustainable Development and Use of AI in the Global South” was co-organized by the Republic of Tajikistan and the United Nations Office for South-South Cooperation (UNOSSC) in New York on the margins of the 2026 High-Level Political Forum on Sustainable Development (HLPF).
During the event, Mr. Khurshed Mirzo, Director of the Agency for Innovation and Digital Technologies under the President of the Republic of Tajikistan, delivered a keynote statement highlighting the importance of artificial intelligence as a tool for sustainable development, innovation, and improved public services. He emphasized the need for international cooperation to address challenges related to digital infrastructure, capacity-building, financing, and responsible AI governance.
It was further highlighted that Tajikistan is advancing digital transformation through the implementation of the National Artificial Intelligence Strategy until 2040 and the establishment of the Regional Artificial Intelligence Centre in Central Asia – IT HUB DUSHANBE, aimed at promoting regional cooperation in AI education, research, innovation, and responsible use of emerging technologies.
The event brought together representatives of UN Member States, regional organizations, research institutions, and the academic community, contributing to the advancement of global dialogue on strengthening South-South and triangular cooperation, as well as promoting the use of artificial intelligence for sustainable and inclusive development.
