Investments in domestic AI models and high-performance computing infrastructure continue, as debates on ethics and cultural diversity grow.
Türkiye is accelerating its strategic initiatives in artificial intelligence (AI), aligning with global developments in the field. During the “AI Tomorrow Summit 2025,” attended by Vice President Cevdet Yılmaz and Minister of Industry and Technology Mehmet Fatih Kacır, the country’s current approach and long-term vision in AI were presented to the public.
The national strategy focuses on enhancing Türkiye’s domestic AI ecosystem through investments in supercomputing infrastructure, locally trained large language models (LLMs), and targeted funding mechanisms for startups and SMEs. Public institutions such as TÜBİTAK are leading these efforts to strengthen academic output and applied innovation across multiple sectors.
Building Infrastructure: From Data to Supercomputers
One of the most notable developments is the commissioning of Türkiye’s supercomputing infrastructure to support AI-driven projects. The ARF and newly launched ARF-ACC systems offer processing power equivalent to 35,000 laptops and are equipped with high-performance GPUs tailored for data-heavy operations.
Türkiye is also a partner in the EuroHPC project and has granted researchers access to MareNostrum 5, a high-capacity supercomputer with power comparable to approximately 380,000 laptops. With these efforts, officials aim to triple computing capacity and bolster support for complex AI initiatives.
Türkiye’s First LLM Project Underway
TÜBİTAK BİLGEM Artificial Intelligence Institute is currently developing the country’s first foundational large language model. The project involves curating a dataset of 1 trillion tokens derived from public sources, institutional archives, and digital content. The initiative aims to reflect local language and cultural nuances in the training data while enhancing Türkiye’s autonomy in AI technologies.
Though technically promising, questions remain regarding the model’s competitiveness in the global arena, including concerns about data diversity, training transparency, and real-world applications.
Ethical Challenges and Cultural Concerns Emerge
As AI systems become more influential in decision-making and communication, debates surrounding ethics and cultural representation are becoming increasingly relevant. One concern raised during the summit is the risk of cultural homogenization due to AI models trained on globally dominant data sets, which may marginalize local expressions and values.
The ministry emphasized the need for AI to support inclusive and equitable outcomes, rather than becoming a tool of digital dominance. These concerns align with international discussions about the societal impact of AI technologies and the need for ethical frameworks.
Funding Programs and Ecosystem Calls
TÜBİTAK’s fourth AI ecosystem call, launched this year, seeks to match the needs of industries with AI-driven solutions developed by tech SMEs and research centers. Focus areas include smart manufacturing, agriculture, financial technologies, sustainability, and education. The funding is designed to ensure broader access to innovation and leverage Türkiye’s research capacity.
Additionally, the government continues to involve youth in tech transformation through educational programs like Teknofest, Deneyap Technology Workshops, and Sector on Campus, aiming to align skillsets with emerging AI demands.
Türkiye Aims for Global Recognition in AI Research
Türkiye currently ranks 16th globally in the number of scientific publications related to AI. The government has announced its goal of moving into the top 10 in the coming years. While this ambition is notable, observers point to the importance of not just quantity but the quality, openness, and international collaboration behind scientific output.
A Complex but Strategic Transformation
Türkiye’s ongoing AI initiatives mark a significant transformation in its digital strategy. Investments in local models, computing infrastructure, and human capital development indicate a long-term vision. However, experts underline that for these efforts to yield lasting and equitable impact, transparency, inclusivity, and robust ethical oversight must become central pillars of implementation
