Sustainable Development Goals at Baku State University.

The opening ceremony of the First International Conference and Autumn School of the Turkic World on Artificial Intelligence Ethics was held at Baku State University, jointly organized by Baku State University, the International Turkic Academy, and the Turkish Academy of Sciences**.

In his opening remarks, BDU Rector Elchin Babayev stated that the 21st century represents a turning point for humanity. As technologies advance, artificial intelligence systems are expanding the boundaries of human thinking. However, the true power of this technology emerges when it is guided by ethics and applied in a human-centered and responsible manner. He emphasized that discussing the ethical dimensions of artificial intelligence is not only a scientific issue but also a moral and national responsibility.

The Rector noted that the “Artificial Intelligence Strategy of the Republic of Azerbaijan for 2025–2028,” signed by President Ilham Aliyev, defines key directions for the country’s future development, including the responsible and ethical use of AI, transparency, fairness, reliability, and a human-centered approach as fundamental principles of state policy. He highlighted that BDU, with its more than a century-long history, has established a Department of Artificial Intelligence Ethics in cooperation with the International Turkic Academy and plans to expand international research collaboration with universities in Türkiye, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, and other countries.

President of the International Turkic Academy, academician Shahin Mustafayev, underlined that AI is influencing all spheres of human life—from education and healthcare to public administration and security—bringing both opportunities and new challenges. He stressed that the conference represents not only an academic gathering but also a significant practical step toward achieving shared strategic goals within the Turkic world.

President of the Turkish Academy of Sciences, Professor Muzaffer Şeker, emphasized that AI technologies are now at the center of global politics and economics, making ethical, legal, and cultural research in this field essential for ensuring that the Turkic world secures its rightful place in global competition.

Ambassador of Türkiye to Azerbaijan Birol Akgün highlighted the special importance of AI ethics initiatives for the Turkic world, noting that discussions held during the conference would contribute not only to Turkic states but also to friendly and allied countries.

Chairman of the Board of the Innovation and Digital Development Agency Farid Osmanov and Professor Muazzam Ali Khan Khattak, Director of the Al-Farabi Center for Artificial Intelligence and Cybersecurity at Quaid-i-Azam University, also addressed the event, stressing the importance of joint initiatives in AI ethics.

The conference, which continues until October 31, brings together representatives of leading universities and research centers from 10 countries. Within the framework of the event, participants will discuss ethical principles of AI, integration into academic curricula, responsible technology concepts, and human-centered innovation models.

During the ceremony, certificates of appreciation were presented on behalf of BDU to Shahin Mustafayev, Muzaffer Şeker, and Muazzam Ali Khan Khattak for their support in organizing the conference and strengthening scientific cooperation and brotherly relations.

The event concluded with an artistic composition prepared by BDU’s Cultural and Creative Center.

SDG 4 (Quality Education), SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure), SDG 16 (Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions), SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals)