Global Leaders Converge in Delhi for AI Impact Summit 2026

Spanish President Pedro Sanchez, Mauritian Prime Minister Navinchandra Ramgoolam, and Seychelles Vice President Sebastien Pillay have arrived in New Delhi for the AI Impact Summit 2026. They were warmly received by Indian ministers, highlighting India's role in fostering international AI cooperation. The five-day summit aims to align AI initiatives with global welfare principles and has attracted over 110 countries and numerous international organizations. The event serves as a key platform for discussing AI's ethical, economic, and social impacts while strengthening multifaceted international partnerships.

Key Points: AI Impact Summit 2026 Opens in Delhi with World Leaders

  • Over 110 countries participating
  • Focus on AI for Humanity principle
  • Strengthens digital and maritime partnerships
  • Part of India-Spain Dual Year celebrations
2 min read

Spain, Mauritius, Seychelles leaders arrive in Delhi to attend AI Impact Summit

Spanish President, Mauritian PM, Seychelles VP arrive in New Delhi for the five-day AI Impact Summit 2026, focusing on ethical AI and global partnerships.

"Digital cooperation remains a key pillar of the Enhanced Strategic Partnership - Ministry of External Affairs"

New Delhi, Feb 18

Spanish President Pedro Sanchez, Mauritian Prime Minister Navinchandra Ramgoolam and Seychelles Vice President Sebastien Pillay have arrived in New Delhi on Wednesday to participate in the AI Impact Summit 2026, which underscores the transformative potential of artificial intelligence.

World leaders were warmly received by Indian ministers, reflecting India's commitment to fostering international cooperation in AI, digital partnerships, and cultural exchange.

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) extended a warm welcome posting on X, "Welcome, President of Spain, Pedro Sanchez Perez-Castejon, for the India-AI Impact Summit. Warmly received by Minister of State for Skills Development and Entrepreneurship Jayant Singh. The visit of President Sanchez will add further impetus to the ongoing celebrations of India-Spain Dual Year of Culture, Tourism and AI."

A warm welcome was also extended to the Mauritian PM by Minister of State for Jal Shakti Raj Bhushan Choudhary. The Mauritian leader's wife, Veena Ramgoolam, also accompanied him.

"Welcome to a close friend and maritime neighbour! Prime Minister Navinchandra Ramgoolam of Mauritius was warmly received by Minister of State for Jal Shakti Raj Bhushan Choudhary on his arrival in India for the India AI Impact Summit 2026. Digital cooperation remains a key pillar of the Enhanced Strategic Partnership, anchored in deep-rooted and historic people-to-people ties," the MEA said.

The Vice President of Seychelles, Sebastien Pillay, was also accorded a warm welcome by MoS Raj Bhushan Choudhary upon his arrival in New Delhi.

"A close and longstanding maritime partner, Seychelles' participation in the Summit offers an opportunity to harness AI for the benefit of our peoples and further strengthen our partnership," the Ministry stated.

The five-day Summit has attracted over 110 countries and 30 international organisations, including about 20 Heads of State or Government and around 45 ministers.

It seeks to align AI initiatives with India's national vision of 'Sarvajana Hitaya, Sarvajana Sukhaya' (welfare for all, happiness for all) and the global principle of AI for Humanity.

India-AI Impact Summit 2026 is the fourth in its series, following editions in the UK (Bletchley Park, 2023), South Korea (2024), and France (2025). The Summit offers a platform for leaders to discuss AI's ethical, economic, and social impacts while strengthening partnerships across digital technology, culture, tourism, and maritime cooperation.

Several more dignitaries are expected to arrive later in the day, continuing the Summit's focus on collaboration and inclusive AI-driven development.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

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Rohit P
Great initiative, but I hope the discussions go beyond just high-level talks. We need concrete plans on how AI can solve real problems here - like in agriculture, healthcare, and traffic management. Also, hope our own startups get a platform, not just foreign giants.
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Aman W
Wonderful to see Mauritius and Seychelles participating. Our ties with these maritime neighbours are deep-rooted. Digital cooperation with them can be a game-changer for the Indian Ocean region. Jai Hind!
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Sarah B
Impressive gathering! 110 countries is no small feat. As someone working in tech, I'm curious to see what partnerships emerge from this, especially between Indian and European AI firms. The ethical focus is crucial.
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Karthik V
While the summit is a positive step, I sincerely hope the outcomes are transparent and accessible. Often these high-profile events make big promises that don't trickle down to the common citizen. Let's ensure the 'impact' is real and measurable.
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Nisha Z
Love that culture and tourism are part of the conversation alongside AI! It's a holistic approach. Spain's Dual Year of Culture with India sounds exciting. Maybe we'll see some amazing AI-powered museum exhibits or travel tech collaborations. 🤞

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