Baku Hosts “StrategEast: Eurasian Forum on Government and IT” for the First Time
The 7th edition of the “StrategEast: Eurasian Forum on Government and IT” took place in Baku on November 4–5, 2025, organized through a partnership between the Innovation and Digital Development Agency (IDDA) under the Ministry of Digital Development and Transport and the StrategEast organization. Held in Azerbaijan for the first time, the forum brought together nearly 200 experts and technology leaders from the United States, European Union, Gulf countries, Central Asia, and the Caucasus region.
This year’s event focused on the theme “A World Transformed by Artificial Intelligence.” The forum featured expert presentations and panel discussions on AI’s impact on the global economy—particularly in Central Eurasian countries—its opportunities and challenges, as well as the ethical and responsible use of AI.
As part of the forum, Salar Imamaliyev, Chief Commercial Officer of the IDDA, delivered the opening speech, noting that the adoption of Azerbaijan’s Artificial Intelligence Strategy earlier this year has helped shape a conceptual framework for the country.
During his address, Anatoly Motkin, President of the StrategEast organization, highlighted Azerbaijan’s unique role within the digital ecosystem of Central Eurasia.
On the second day of the forum, Kamran Aghayev, Head of the Data Management Department at IDDA, participated in a panel discussion on “Inclusive Digitalization in Central Eurasia: The Role of Major Technology Companies in National Digital Sovereignty.”
The event featured representatives from leading global technology companies, including Google, EPAM, Xsolla, Coursera, and Sigma Software, as well as experts from the World Bank and the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD). In addition, a dedicated “Startups Meet Investors” session was held, providing opportunities for startups to meet with venture and corporate investors.
It is worth noting that the “StrategEast: Eurasian Forum on Government and IT” has previously taken place in Kyiv, Tbilisi, Bishkek, Samarkand, Almaty, and Chișinău. Following the forum, expert recommendations—covering technology-related decision-making frameworks and policies—are shared with government bodies, private organizations, and investors.
