CASPIA expert Nargiz Mammadova commented for Anewz on the outcomes of the World Artificial Intelligence Conference (WAIC) 2026, held in Shanghai, China, from 17 to 20 July. This year's conference brought together more than 1,100 global enterprises, featured over 300 global product launches, and marked the establishment of the World Organization for Cooperation in Artificial Intelligence (WAICO).

According to Nargiz Mammadova, artificial intelligence has become a strategic priority not only for the private sector but also for governments around the world.

“Whether we like it or not, an increasing number of countries are integrating AI into public administration, either as a supporting tool or as part of decision-making processes. At the same time, important questions arise regarding AI ethics, the extent of AI's access to government data and public resources, and the regulatory mechanisms governing its use,” she said.

Mammadova noted that artificial intelligence is also creating new opportunities for business and investment.

“Today, companies can monetize not only AI products themselves but also the services provided through AI-powered solutions. This is creating an entirely new niche for investment and business development,” she explained.

The expert stressed that artificial intelligence has become one of the defining issues in global politics.

“We are witnessing an increasingly intense global competition for leadership in artificial intelligence, particularly between the United States and China. The race for technological leadership in AI has become a key element of international politics,” she stated.

Mammadova also emphasized that AI development is increasingly becoming a regional process.

“In Central Asia, Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan stand out for actively integrating AI into public administration while simultaneously developing the legal and regulatory framework necessary for its implementation,” she noted.

Speaking about Azerbaijan, Nargiz Mammadova emphasized that the country has taken timely steps toward developing its national AI strategy.

“Azerbaijan is timely developing its national artificial intelligence strategy. I believe the country's true AI potential will be realized in the near future,” she concluded.