New Delhi is set to host a major international gathering of technology executives, political leaders and policy experts as the India-AI Impact Summit 2026 begins in the national capital from February 16 to 20. The Ministry of External Affairs confirmed that delegations from more than 45 countries will attend the high-level event, positioning the summit as one of the largest global forums focused on artificial intelligence and digital policy.
Among the notable participants is Antonio Guterres, the Secretary-General of the United Nations, along with senior officials from several international organisations. The presence of global leadership underscores the summit’s growing significance as countries seek to collaborate on the opportunities and challenges posed by rapidly advancing AI technologies.
The summit’s framework is built around three central themes—People, Planet and Progress—reflecting India’s stated aim of shaping artificial intelligence governance that promotes inclusive growth, environmental sustainability and technological advancement. Officials said the agenda will focus on balancing innovation with responsibility, ensuring that digital transformation benefits both developing and developed economies.
Several heads of state and government are scheduled to attend at the invitation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Leaders expected to participate include Tshering Tobgay of Bhutan, Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva of Brazil, Emmanuel Macron of France, Pedro Sánchez of Spain and Dick Schoof of the Netherlands, among others. Additional representation will come from vice presidents, crown princes and senior ministers, highlighting broad geographic participation across Europe, Latin America, Asia and Africa.
Beyond government delegations, the event will draw prominent figures from the global technology sector. Executives expected to attend include Sundar Pichai of Google, Sam Altman of OpenAI, Jensen Huang of Nvidia, Demis Hassabis of DeepMind, Brad Smith of Microsoft and Cristiano Amon of Qualcomm. Their participation is expected to add industry insight into emerging AI trends, research and investment.
According to officials, the summit will facilitate discussions on responsible AI governance, innovation ecosystems, digital public infrastructure and climate-conscious technology. Sessions are also planned on equitable access to emerging tools, reflecting concerns that technological gaps could widen inequalities between regions.
Organisers have described the India-AI Impact Summit as a platform designed not only for dialogue but also for measurable outcomes. By encouraging collaboration between policymakers, startups and multinational firms, the event aims to generate partnerships and frameworks that support economic growth, social development and the sustainable use of artificial intelligence.
With a strong international presence and a broad agenda, the summit is expected to reinforce India’s role as an influential player in shaping global AI policy while promoting cooperation on the future of the digital economy.
