United Nations (UN) Secretary-General António Guterres has lauded India as a "highly successful" emerging economy that wields significant influence in global affairs. In a recent statement, Guterres emphasized that India's growing economic stature and its leadership in technology make it the ideal host for the upcoming 'India-AI Impact Summit 2026'. The Secretary-General's remarks come at a time when India is increasingly positioning itself as a bridge between the developed world and the Global South, particularly in the realm of emerging technologies like Artificial Intelligence (AI).
The India-AI Impact Summit 2026 is scheduled to take place from February 16 to February 20. This high-level event is historic as it marks the first time an AI summit of this magnitude is being hosted by a nation from the Global South. During an interview with PTI at the UN Headquarters, Guterres expressed his strong support for the initiative, noting that AI development must be inclusive. He stressed that the benefits of AI shouldn't be reserved for a handful of developed nations or superpowers but should be accessible to all of humanity to ensure equitable progress across the globe.
First AI Summit Hosted by a Global South Nation
The term 'Global South' refers to countries often described as developing, less developed, or underdeveloped, primarily located in Africa, Asia, and Latin America, while hosting the India-AI Impact Summit 2026 is a significant milestone for these regions. Secretary-General Guterres congratulated India on this initiative, stating that it's essential for the Global South to have a seat at the table where the future of AI is being decided. He noted that India's leadership provides a platform for these nations to voice their concerns and aspirations regarding technological advancements that will shape the 21st century.
Ensuring Universal Access to Artificial Intelligence
Guterres was vocal about the risks of a technological monopoly, stating that it's "totally unacceptable" for AI to remain the exclusive privilege of the most developed countries. This comment is widely interpreted as a reference to the dominance of the United States and China in the AI sector. The UN Chief argued that AI must become a universal tool for the benefit of all mankind. He praised India's efforts to democratize AI, ensuring that the immense potential of the technology—along with its inherent risks—is discussed thoroughly in a global context rather than behind the closed doors of a few powerful entities.
India's Growing Influence in Global Economic Affairs
Describing India as a highly successful emerging economy, Guterres highlighted that the country's role is no longer limited to regional dynamics. India is now a key player in the global economy and international diplomacy, while according to the Secretary-General, India's economic trajectory serves as a blueprint for other developing nations. He pointed out that the country's ability to integrate technology with large-scale social programs has demonstrated how AI can be used for public good. This success, he noted, makes India the most appropriate venue for a summit that aims to align AI development with human welfare.
Core Principles: People, Planet, and Progress
The India-AI Impact Summit 2026 is built upon three guiding principles: 'People, Planet, and Progress'. These pillars reflect a holistic approach to technology. The 'People' aspect focuses on human-centric AI that enhances capabilities and improves lives, while the 'Planet' pillar addresses how AI can be leveraged to combat climate change and promote environmental sustainability. Finally, 'Progress' aims at driving economic growth and achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Guterres emphasized that these principles are vital for ensuring that AI serves as a force for good rather than a source of further global division.
Addressing the Digital Divide and Global Risks
One of the primary objectives of the summit is to address the widening digital divide. While some nations are rapidly advancing with AI-driven automation, others lack basic digital infrastructure. Guterres confirmed his intention to travel to India to participate in the summit, underlining the UN's commitment to global AI governance, while he stated that because AI affects the entire world, its governance must be inclusive. The summit will provide a critical forum to discuss the ethical implications, safety standards, and regulatory frameworks needed to manage AI risks while maximizing its benefits for the Global South.