AI Impact Summit: PM Modi greets world leaders, tech bosses before keynote address with Macron

Prime Minister Narendra Modi was on Thursday seen interacting with global leaders, including Brazilian President Lula da Silva, during India AI Impact Summit in New Delhi.  

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has arrived at the Bharat Mandapam for the opening ceremony of the India AI Impacr Summit 2026. He greeted world leaders and tech bosses at the event and will deliver a keynote address shortly.

A day after the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation announced that Bill Gates would deliver the keynote address at the India AI Impact Summit 2026, the organisation on Thursday reversed its decision, stating that the Microsoft co-founder would skip the event “after careful consideration."

In a post on X, India AI said, "As we prepare for an important day at the India AI Impact Summit 2026, delegates are requested to review the latest access and travel advisories for smooth entry to Bharat Mandapam."

"Plan your arrival in advance, carry valid credentials, and follow on-ground guidance from security and event teams. Your cooperation will help ensure a safe and seamless experience for everyone," it added.

On the sidelines of the AI Summit in Delhi, Prime Minister Narendra Modi will hold a closed-door roundtable with leading global technology executives on Thursday to discuss innovation, emerging technologies and international cooperation.

Among those expected to participate are Sam Altman and Sundar Pichai. Modi also met Pichai on Wednesday as part of his engagements during the summit.

Large parts of Delhi experienced severe traffic congestion on Wednesday as extensive road restrictions were imposed following the arrival of 22 heads of state.

Delegations visited not only Bharat Mandapam, the main venue of the summit, but also several tourist locations across south and central Delhi. The movement of motorcades led to prolonged gridlocks, leaving commuters stranded for hours.

Several world leaders who arrived in India earlier this week are expected to attend Thursday’s sessions. Among them are President Emmanuel Macron, Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, and Netherlands Prime Minister Dick Schoof.

The Prime Minister’s Office said the Leaders’ Plenary is scheduled for around 12 noon. The session will bring together heads of state, ministers and senior representatives from multilateral institutions to discuss national and global priorities on artificial intelligence, including governance frameworks, infrastructure development and international cooperation.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will address the gathering on Thursday, formally opening the fourth day of proceedings. According to a statement from the Prime Minister’s Office, the inaugural session will also feature addresses by French President Emmanuel Macron and Antonio Guterres, Secretary General of the United Nations.