On August 3, 2026, the Institute of Smart Systems and Artificial Intelligence (ISSAI) at Nazarbayev University welcomed a delegation from China’s Dare Group and Forward Robotics to discuss research activities, technological developments, and opportunities for future collaboration in artificial intelligence and robotics.
The Chinese delegation included Ms. Han Ying, President of Dare Group; Mr. Luo Laijun, General Manager of Forward Robotics; and Mr. Daniel Zong, Chief Technology Officer of Forward Robotics. The delegation was accompanied by Dr. Kamilya Smagulova, Associate Professor at Astana IT University and Research Assistant at Nazarbayev University.
The ISSAI team was represented by Dr. Huseyin Atakan Varol, General Director; Yerbol Absalyamov, Executive Director; Dr. Azamat Yeshmukhametov, Head of the Advanced Robotics and Mechatronics Systems (ARMS) Laboratory; Dr. Ainur Zhaikhan, Postdoctoral Researcher; Dr. Gourav Devappa Moger, Postdoctoral Researcher; and Ulzhan Alibek, External Affairs Manager.
During the meeting, the ISSAI team introduced the Institute, presenting its flagship AI technologies, and ongoing research and educational initiatives. The presentation highlighted ISSAI’s work in areas including large language models, speech technologies, and AI applications. Dr. Ainur Zhaikhan and Dr. Gourav Devappa Moger also presented an overview of their ongoing research in robotics, including projects focused on intelligent robotic systems, autonomous control, and advanced human-robot interaction.
The representatives of Dare Group and Forward Robotics introduced their organizations, showcasing their core products, technological capabilities, and current developments in robotics and intelligent automation. The meeting provided an opportunity for both sides to learn more about each other’s work and exchange perspectives on recent advancements in artificial intelligence and robotics.
Following the meeting, the delegation toured the Advanced Robotics and Mechatronics Systems (ARMS) Laboratory, where Dr. Azamat Yeshmukhametov presented the team’s robotic hardware platforms and demonstrated ongoing robotics research projects.
The meeting reflected the growing ties between Kazakhstan and China in science, technology, and innovation, fostering dialogue and strengthening mutual understanding between researchers and technology leaders from both countries.