Baku: An international conference titled “Launch of the AI Index for the Islamic World” opened at the Heydar Aliyev Center in Baku. The opening ceremony, held on December 8, marked a significant step in enhancing cooperation on artificial intelligence (AI) within the Islamic world. The event was co-organized by the Heydar Aliyev Foundation and Azerbaijan’s Ministry of Science and Education, in partnership with the Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO).
According to Azeri-Press News Agency, the conference aimed to discuss the ethical, social, and economic impacts of AI. The document on the ‘AI Index for the Islamic World’ was presented for the first time in Baku. Leyla Aliyeva, Vice-President of the Heydar Aliyev Foundation, emphasized the integration of AI into everyday life, highlighting both opportunities and responsibilities. She stressed the importance of assessing AI’s impacts, protecting youth from risks, and directing them to opportunities provided by this technology.
Leyla Aliyeva outlined Azerbaijan’s steps towards AI development, including the National Artificial Intelligence Strategy for 2025-2028, which aims to establish a national AI ecosystem. She also noted the Heydar Aliyev Foundation’s longstanding focus on education, having built and modernized numerous educational facilities in Azerbaijan. Transitioning to the AI era, she stated, further amplifies the foundation’s mission, viewing AI as a new opportunity for every child.
Highlighting AI’s role in environmental protection, Leyla Aliyeva mentioned its potential in tracking rare animal species, monitoring climate change, and fostering sustainable agriculture. She also underscored cooperation with ICESCO, including projects in Africa and initiatives involving regional information and communication technology centers for youth and people with disabilities.
Emin Amrullayev, Azerbaijani Minister of Science and Education, praised the Heydar Aliyev Foundation’s contributions to education. He noted the foundation’s support for innovative initiatives and its role in the Islamic world’s educational development. Salim bin Mohammed Almalik, ICESCO Director-General, remarked on AI’s transformative potential, stating that embracing AI leads to accelerated development.
The event included the 4th ‘Hamdan-ICESCO’ award ceremony, recognizing contributions to educational development in the Islamic world. The Heydar Aliyev Foundation received this award for its educational and social support projects.
Sheikh Rashid bin Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum congratulated the awardees, emphasizing the importance of volunteer efforts in supporting education. The conference featured discussions on AI’s impact on education, economic efficiency, and the development of future professions. Panels highlighted the need for cross-border collaboration in AI and its ethical and socio-economic aspects.
The conference concluded with the adoption of the Baku Declaration on the AI Index for the Islamic World. The document underscores the Islamic world’s recognition of AI’s impact and the AI Index’s role in advancing education, science, and culture. It calls for international cooperation and the development of national AI strategies with ethical safety measures.
Participants also viewed the ‘My Seas, My Oceans’ exhibition, emphasizing the importance of water conservation amid climate change and global warming.