Central Asia Rejects Binary Choice in US-China AI Tech Rivalry

The US State Department recently circulated a draft note proposing that nations seeking access to American AI know-how under the 'Pax Silica' program must withdraw from rival Chinese projects, specifically the World Artificial Intelligence Cooperation Organization (WAICO). Astana and Tashkent, however, have signaled that their national interests lie in maintaining a diverse technological portfolio rather than aligning exclusively with one geopolitical bloc.

Astana continues to deepen its cooperation with Beijing despite the American pressure. On August 18, the two nations solidified plans for a science-focused AI platform designed to analyze complex data sets and model scientific processes. This follows the development of 'DeepBas,' a joint initiative aimed at optimizing water resource management through specialized AI models. Kazakh engineers are also actively participating in Chinese training programs focused on satellite data analysis and disaster warning systems, ensuring a steady transfer of expertise.

Tashkent has taken a more vocal stance against the forced exclusivity. During a technology forum on August 24, Bobur Khodjaev, an aide to President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, framed the US demand as an impractical 'us-or-them' ultimatum. He noted that while American firms may provide superior hardware, Chinese providers offer more affordable, open-source models essential for a developing economy. Uzbekistan remains committed to sourcing the most effective solutions regardless of origin, asserting that the nation will not sacrifice its access to cost-efficient Chinese innovation for the sake of geopolitical alignment.