LocationsA two-day forum, “AI4Development: Solutions for Belarus,” opened today in Minsk, convening over 250 participants to shape the future of artificial intelligence in the country. The event is organized by the Ministry of Communications and Informatization, Giprosvyaz OJSC, and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Belarus.
Forum in Minsk brings together government, business, and science to develop artificial intelligence ecosystem in Belarus
October 7, 2025
Photo: UNDP in Belarus.
The forum is an important step in the systematic development of AI by fostering sustainable partnerships between the public and private sectors, and academia.
Artificial intelligence has become a key element of the global agenda. International experts are confident that AI technologies can contribute to the implementation of most of the Sustainable Development Goals, from improving healthcare and education to optimizing industry and energy management. In September 2025, the 80th session of the UN General Assembly launched a Global Dialogue on AI Governance to ensure the inclusive and accountable development of technology. According to the UNDP Human Development Report 2025, the number of countries with national AI strategies has increased fivefold in the last six years, and global investment in AI has tripled since 2020.
Belarus is actively engaging in this global process, steadily strengthening its foundation for AI development. For the first time, AI has been designated as a distinct objective in the draft National Sustainable Development Strategy through 2040, with AI and big data technologies identified as priority investment sectors.
UNDP's Resident Representative in Belarus, Ms. Renfei Liu
Photo: UNDP in Belarus.
"Harnessing the benefits of digitalization while mitigating the risks is one of the defining development challenges of our time," said Ms. Renfei Liu, UNDP’s Resident Representative in Belarus. "This approach is applied in more than 130 countries, where we are working with partners to turn digital and AI ambitions into life-changing results."
The UNDP’s head in Belarus also emphasized that together with national partners, UNDP works on AI readiness in innovative businesses, on building the data economy of the future, and helps develop the country’s first AI standards.
In 2024-2025, the forum's organizers conducted a national assessment of Belarus's readiness for digitalization and AI. The study engaged over 10,000 professionals from the public and private sectors, academia, and civil society. The data obtained was used in the preparation of the National Digital Development Strategy of Belarus for 2026-2030.
Photo: UNDP in Belarus.
The assessment revealed that while 57% of Belarusians believe digital technologies can address key economic, social, and environmental challenges, 73% are unaware of government programs supporting AI, underscoring the need for stronger multi-stakeholder partnerships.
Kirill Zaleski, Minister of Communications and Informatization of the Republic of Belarus.
Photo: UNDP in Belarus.
"Our objective is to establish an environment in Belarus where artificial intelligence becomes a key driver of economic growth and improves the quality of life for our citizens," stated Kirill Zaleski, Minister of Communications and Informatization of the Republic of Belarus. "To achieve this, we need to harness the collective potential of government, business, and science, leveraging the best international practices. This forum is a practical step in that direction."
The forum’s agenda includes strategic sessions on integrating AI into state policy, the role of the public sector as a catalyst for innovation, and regulatory prospects. Participants include international experts from Serbia and Russia, alongside representatives from Belarusian government institutions, commercial enterprises, and academia.
Irena Cerovic, Team Leader, Innovation, Istanbul Regional Hub, UNDP Eurasia.
Photo: UNDP in Belarus
During the first day of the Forum "Artificial Intelligence as a Driver of Digital Transformation for Sustainable Development of the Republic of Belarus," UNDP in Belarus and the Ministry of Communications and Informatization of the Republic of Belarus adopted a Joint Statement emphasizing the transformative role of artificial intelligence in the country's digital development. The Statement highlights key aspects for advancing AI in Belarus, including investment in human capital, the creation of a balanced legal framework, the expansion of international cooperation, and ensuring equal access to digital technologies for all citizens.
The second day features interactive workshops to co-design solutions for key AI development areas and will showcase real-world case studies of AI implementation by Belarusian companies in manufacturing, business operations, and customer service.
The forum will culminate in an analytical report with policy recommendations for the national AI ecosystem. The insights and solutions generated will help integrate AI-based innovations into national strategies and create opportunities to pilot solutions in key economic sectors.
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