Modi to Address Global AI Leaders at Key Summit

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to address the AI Impact Summit on Thursday, February 19, 2026, in what is being seen as a significant moment for India’s growing presence in the global artificial intelligence ecosystem. The summit will bring together leading political figures, senior technology executives, and policymakers to discuss the future of AI, innovation, regulation, and global collaboration.

The Prime Minister’s address is expected to focus on India’s AI ambitions, digital transformation initiatives, and the country’s evolving role as a global technology hub. The summit is being attended by some of the most influential figures in the technology world, making it one of the most closely watched AI gatherings of the year.

The AI Impact Summit aims to explore how artificial intelligence can drive economic growth, enhance governance, and solve global challenges. With India emerging as a key player in the digital economy, Mr. Modi’s participation reflects the country’s strategic interest in shaping global AI conversations.

Global Tech Leaders to Share the Stage

Following Mr. Modi’s address, keynote speeches will be delivered by major figures in the technology and business sectors. Among them is Sam Altman, CEO of OpenAI, who is expected to outline the rapid advancements in generative AI and discuss responsible innovation.

Also speaking at the event will be Dennis Hassabis, CEO of Google DeepMind, known for his leadership in cutting-edge AI research and development. His address is likely to focus on breakthroughs in machine learning, scientific research applications, and ethical frameworks for AI deployment.

India’s corporate sector will be represented by Mukesh Ambani, Chairman and Managing Director of Reliance Industries Limited. Ambani’s presence signals the growing intersection between AI technology and large-scale industrial transformation in India. Reliance has increasingly invested in digital infrastructure, data services, and next-generation technologies.

Other prominent speakers include Bill Gates, Chair of the Gates Foundation, and Brad Smith, President of Microsoft. Their participation underscores the global importance of the summit and the emphasis on responsible AI governance, digital equity, and public-private partnerships.

India’s Expanding AI Vision

Over the past decade, India has made substantial progress in digital infrastructure through initiatives such as Digital India, Aadhaar-based identity systems, and unified payment platforms. The government has also signalled its intent to become a leader in artificial intelligence research and innovation.

India’s AI strategy focuses on sectors such as healthcare, agriculture, education, smart cities, and governance. By leveraging large datasets and a skilled workforce, policymakers believe AI can help bridge developmental gaps and enhance service delivery.

In recent years, India has also emphasised ethical AI frameworks, data protection, and inclusive access. The Prime Minister’s speech is expected to reiterate the importance of responsible AI development, balancing innovation with regulation.

The presence of global technology leaders at the summit reflects recognition of India’s growing importance in the AI value chain. With one of the world’s largest digital user bases and a rapidly expanding startup ecosystem, India is seen as both a major market and an innovation hub.

Diplomatic Dimension: India Criticises Israel’s West Bank Measures

While the AI Summit highlights India’s technological ambitions, the country’s diplomatic stance has also drawn attention. India has joined a list of nations criticising Israel’s unilateral measures in the West Bank, marking a notable statement in its foreign policy positioning.

The West Bank has long been a focal point in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Unilateral actions by any party often attract international scrutiny, particularly when they are seen as altering the status quo.

India has traditionally maintained a balanced approach to the Middle East, maintaining strong ties with Israel while also supporting the Palestinian cause. Over the years, New Delhi has deepened defence, agricultural, and technological cooperation with Israel, while continuing to advocate for a two-state solution through dialogue and peaceful negotiations.

By expressing criticism of unilateral measures, India signals its adherence to international norms and diplomatic processes. This move aligns India with broader global concerns regarding stability and adherence to established agreements.

Balancing Technology and Diplomacy

The timing of these developments underscores the multifaceted nature of India’s global engagement. On one hand, the Prime Minister is addressing a high-profile AI summit, projecting India as a technology-driven economy. On the other, India is actively participating in diplomatic discourse on sensitive geopolitical issues.

This dual engagement reflects India’s broader foreign policy approach—strengthening economic and technological partnerships while maintaining a principled stance on global conflicts.

Analysts believe that India’s balanced positioning helps it maintain credibility across diverse geopolitical blocs. In the Middle East, India has strong economic ties with Gulf nations, strategic cooperation with Israel, and historical support for Palestinian aspirations. Carefully calibrated diplomatic statements are therefore crucial.

The Growing Importance of AI in Global Governance

Artificial intelligence is increasingly becoming central to discussions on global governance, economic competitiveness, and national security. Countries are investing heavily in AI research, data infrastructure, and talent development.

For India, participating in and shaping these conversations is critical. With its demographic advantage and expanding digital ecosystem, India has the potential to influence global standards and frameworks.

The AI Impact Summit provides a platform for leaders to discuss pressing issues such as:

• AI regulation and governance

• Ethical use of data

• Cybersecurity and digital resilience

• Innovation and entrepreneurship

• AI’s role in climate action and healthcare

Mr. Modi’s address is expected to underline India’s commitment to collaborative global frameworks while protecting national interests.

Industry Collaboration and Investment Opportunities

The participation of corporate leaders like Mukesh Ambani signals potential investment announcements and collaborations. India’s private sector has increasingly partnered with global tech giants to build AI-driven solutions.

Reliance Industries, for instance, has expanded into digital platforms, telecommunications, and cloud services. AI integration into these sectors could accelerate India’s digital transformation.

Global tech companies view India as a strategic market due to its large population, growing internet penetration, and expanding digital payments ecosystem. Collaboration between Indian and international firms could drive innovation across sectors.

Ethical and Regulatory Questions

As AI adoption accelerates, concerns around data privacy, misinformation, job displacement, and algorithmic bias are also intensifying. Policymakers worldwide are grappling with how to regulate AI without stifling innovation.

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