New Delhi , Feb 19 : Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived at Bharat Mandapam on Thursday to deliver the keynote address at the India AI Impact Summit 2026, marking a strong start to the day’s proceedings.
As he entered the venue, PM Modi was seen sharing a cordial moment with Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva. The two leaders, representing influential voices from the Global South, walked in together, reflecting growing warmth in India–Brazil ties, particularly on technology governance and inclusive artificial intelligence.
The Prime Minister also exchanged greetings with French President Emmanuel Macron. This spirit of cooperation was further evident during a family photo session with visiting world leaders, underlining the global character of the summit.
Later, PM Modi took part in the opening ceremony before delivering his keynote address, where he outlined India’s vision for responsible and inclusive AI and its wider global impact.
The summit follows an intense opening day, during which PM Modi welcomed several global leaders, including UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres and IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva. He also held multiple bilateral meetings with heads of state and technology leaders.
International dignitaries were received at Bharat Mandapam amid cultural performances blending tradition with modernity. Leaders such as Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayaka and Bhutanese Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay were welcomed with traditional music, setting a collaborative tone.
Among other leaders present were Mauritius Prime Minister Navinchandra Ramgoolam, Croatian Prime Minister Andrej Plenkovic, Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic, Seychelles Vice President Sebastien Pillay, Estonian President Alar Karis, Finnish Prime Minister Petteri Orpo, Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis, and Guyanese Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo.
PM Modi also met global business leaders, including Google CEO Sundar Pichai and entrepreneur Vinod Khosla. Sharing details online, he said talks with Croatia focused on shipbuilding, the blue economy and the IMEEC corridor, while discussions with Estonia explored boosting economic ties through the India–EU FTA.
Held under the theme Sarvajan Hitay, Sarvajan Sukhay, the summit is organised around seven focus areas, including democratising AI resources and ensuring safe, trusted AI, guided by the pillars of people, planet and progress.
The day concluded with a formal dinner and cultural programme hosted by the Prime Minister, showcasing India’s heritage to visiting leaders and delegates.
