President Isaac Herzog met with Jewish community leaders in Kazakhstan on Tuesday, highlighting the community’s rich history and its important role in advancing bilateral relations between Israel and Kazakhstan, while also promoting diplomatic and technological cooperation during a visit to a major artificial intelligence center.
Herzog began the day at the “Beit Rachel” Synagogue in Astana, where he met with Jewish leaders from across Kazakhstan and Central Asia, including Chief Rabbi Yeshaya Cohen and Astana Rabbi Shmuel Karnauch. The president heard about the community’s activities, its efforts to preserve Jewish identity, and its connection to Israel.
“I am moved to be here as the President of the State of Israel. The Jewish story of Kazakhstan spans hundreds of years, which today translates into a modern and developing relationship,” Herzog said.
“I thank President Tokayev for inviting me on this state visit, and I was delighted to meet him, the senior leadership, and the flourishing and thriving Jewish community,” he added.
Herzog expresses hope that the visit would strengthen ties with the region
“It is my great hope that this visit will bring momentum to the relations between Israel and the nations of Central Asia," the president said.
"The fact that I am here, certainly at this time, is not to be taken for granted, and it instills in me the hope that we will develop these ties for the benefit of the entire region, with the great light that our nation spreads throughout the world,” he added.
Herzog visits major AI center
Later in the day, Herzog visited Kazakhstan’s international artificial intelligence center, alem.ai, where he was received by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Digital Development and AI Zhaslan Madiyev. While touring a startup exhibition on site, Herzog praised the country’s technological innovation and entrepreneurial spirit.
“The building, and its transformation into a futuristic center connected to the younger generation, reflects vision and strength,” Herzog said. “The fact that I am the first official guest in this project is a testament to the unique relationship between Israel and Kazakhstan, and to the cooperation between two nations striving for progress and doing good.”
He also emphasized the global significance of artificial intelligence. “The world is undergoing tremendous change. Artificial intelligence is the great revolution that will shape our lives in ways entirely different from what we know today,” he said.
Herzog noted that AI presents both opportunities and ethical challenges, adding that “a nation that seeks success and a sustainable future must be at the forefront of these developments and seize the moment to advance.”
Following the visit, Herzog took part in roundtable discussions between the Israeli delegation and Kazakh officials, before meeting with Kassym-Jomart Tokayev alongside their respective teams.
Earlier, the president also toured the National Museum of Kazakhstan, where he was hosted by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Culture and Information Aida Balayeva and viewed exhibits showcasing the country’s cultural heritage.
Israeli officials accompanying Herzog included senior representatives from the National Cyber Directorate and the Israel Innovation Authority, underscoring the visit’s focus on expanding cooperation in technology and innovation.
Herzog is set to make an official visit to Panama on May 6 to strengthen diplomatic ties and enhance interaction.