Prime Minister Narendra Modi officially inaugurated the Global Summit on AI Governance in the Indian capital today, welcoming world leaders, policymakers and executives from major technology firms for discussions on the future of artificial intelligence.
Modi said in his opening remarks that the summit reflects the importance of international cooperation on AI, and that countries must work together to ensure innovation benefits all people while reducing risks. He called for frameworks that balance opportunity with responsibility, especially in areas like job displacement, safety and ethical use.
Delegations from multiple countries are attending, including representatives from major economies and emerging tech hubs. Leaders and officials are expected to focus on shared principles for regulation, cross-border data flows and standards for safety and transparency in AI systems.
Several chief executives from top technology companies are present. They will participate in panels alongside government officials, addressing questions about innovation, competitiveness and public trust in AI. Topics on the agenda include responsible AI deployment, mitigation of bias in systems and ways to support research that aligns with human values.
The gathering comes amid intensifying global debates on how to govern AI. Many nations are in various stages of developing or implementing rules aimed at protecting privacy, national security and economic interests. Some attendees have said the summit offers a rare opportunity for direct dialogue across sectors and regions.
In side meetings today, several informal pledges were discussed, including commitments to expand international research partnerships and increase investment in AI education and skills development. Though no binding agreements were announced at the opening session, officials said draft documents and frameworks will be circulated for negotiation over the course of the summit.
Critics of the summit say that past global discussions on technology governance have struggled to produce enforceable outcomes, and they emphasise the need for clear timelines and mechanisms to hold participants accountable. Organisers said today’s talks are intended to build momentum toward tangible progress.
The summit is scheduled to run through the week, with follow-up sessions on ethics, competition policy, national AI strategies and multilateral cooperation. Observers say that outcomes from Delhi could shape how governments and companies align on standards that affect billions of users worldwide.