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GSMA leads discussion on telecom infrastructure in the AI era at Digital Bridge

Friday 2 October, 2026

GSMA leads discussion on telecom infrastructure in the AI era at Digital Bridge

2 October 2026 | Astana, Kazakhstan

The GSMA contributed to Digital Bridge 2026 in Astana, bringing together government and industry leaders to discuss how AI is reshaping telecommunications infrastructure, networks and digital services.

Tair Ismailov, Regional Director, GSMA Eurasia, moderated the panel “Telecommunications Infrastructure in the AI Era”, with senior representatives of Kazakhstan’s government and leading telecom operators. The discussion covered regulation, infrastructure, practical AI applications and new business opportunities.

Building networks for the AI era

Panellists discussed the infrastructure required for an AI-driven economy, from 5G and future 6G networks to cloud, data centres and edge computing. Digital sovereignty and local capabilities for data and AI processing were also highlighted as important considerations alongside access to global technologies.

Operators shared how AI is already transforming their networks, with some operations reaching Level 3 automation, while the move towards AI-RAN and increasingly autonomous networks is opening new opportunities for network efficiency and optimisation.

The discussion also reflected Kazakhstan’s unique connectivity needs. With its vast territory and remote areas, satellite technologies can complement terrestrial networks — a trend underscored by the recent launch of commercial Direct-to-Cell services in Kazakhstan, the first in Central Asia.

The panel highlighted the evolving role of telecom operators as a critical part of the infrastructure enabling AI-driven digital transformation.

GSMA continues to strengthen its engagement in Kazakhstan and across Eurasia. In 2027, Astana will host M360 Eurasia, bringing the region’s mobile and digital ecosystem together to explore the next generation of connectivity and digital services.

Six men in business attire sit on stage in white chairs for a panel discussion. Large display behind them shows their names, photos, and the event title: “Telecommunications Infrastructure in the Era of AI.” Two QR codes are visible. The venue has modern decor.
Six men in business attire sit on a panel stage with microphones in hand, speaking to an audience. Behind them is a large screen showing their names, photos, and Russian text about telecommunications infrastructure in the age of AI.

A conference panel with four men in business attire seated on stage, a moderator and three speakers shown on a screen above. An audience faces them. A photographer and staff are at the side. A large QR code and names are visible on the screen. Modern wooden wall background.
A large audience watches a panel of six speakers onstage discussing “Telecommunications Infrastructure in the Era of AI.” Speaker portraits and panel details are displayed on a screen above, with two QR codes visible. The room is modern and fully attended.