ICB's Head of Global Ulgen Kiymik took a trip with CEO Ami Copeland to the 9th Eurasian Forum of Accountants and Auditors which took place in Almaty, Kazakhstan. Here’s how it went.
Representing ICB UK (the Institute of Certified Bookkeepers) and ICFM (the Institute of Certified Financial Managers), the visit was a valuable opportunity to strengthen international professional relationships, celebrate our growing network across Eurasia and Central Asia, and explore the future of the accounting, auditing, and financial management professions.
Held in Kazakhstan for the first time, the Forum brought together approximately 100 delegates from eight countries: Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, the United Kingdom, Türkiye, Uzbekistan, Moldova,Romania It provided an excellent platform for exchanging international expertise, discussing emerging industry challenges, and exploring new opportunities for collaboration.
One of the highlights of the event was the opportunity to bring together ICB and ICFM representatives from across the region, connect with our colleagues in person, exchange ideas, and discuss future developments, strategic priorities, and opportunities to further strengthen our international professional community.
Discussions also focused on international qualifications, AI Academy, upcoming programmes such as IPSAS and opportunities to strengthen professional recognition and collaboration across borders. These conversations reinforced the importance of working together to support the development of finance professionals and strengthen our international network.
It was a pleasure to watch ICB CEO Ami Copeland take the stage and share her insight on the growing impact of artificial intelligence, evolving international standards, and digital risks on the accounting and auditing professions. The events also and addressed the evolving role of the CFO, digital transformation, internal audit, risk management, cybersecurity, and the changing competencies required of finance professionals in the age of artificial intelligence. These developments reinforce the importance of continuous professional development, international knowledge-sharing, and collaboration in preparing finance professionals for the future.
Under the theme “Artificial Intelligence and Digital Transformation of the Finance Function: New Horizons for IFRS, Internal Audit, ESG, and Risk Management”, the Forum explored the changing landscape of finance and the opportunities and challenges presented by technological innovation.
We would like to extend our sincere thanks to all ICFM branches and representatives across Eurasia and Central Asia, as well as to our hosts at ICFM Kazakhstan, APFM (ICFM Azerbaijan), the speakers, and all participants, for their contributions, warm hospitality, and commitment to advancing our shared professional goals.
We look forward to building on the connections made in Almaty, continuing our discussions, and working together to develop new initiatives and opportunities for the ICB and ICFM communities worldwide.