Toronto, Jan 21 (NationPress) Highlighting India’s pivotal contribution to the realm of inclusive, responsible, and impact-oriented artificial intelligence (AI), the Consulate General of India in Toronto convened the “India-Canada AI Dialogue 2026”. This event emphasized the need for bilateral collaboration aimed at generating mutual economic and societal advantages.

The high-profile dialogue was orchestrated in collaboration with the University of Waterloo, the Canada India Tech Council, and Zoho Inc.

As per the Indian Consulate General in Toronto, this dialogue stands out as one of the select pre-summit gatherings globally, serving as a precursor to the monumental AI event in the Global South — the ‘India AI Impact Summit 2026’, set to occur in New Delhi from February 19–20. This summit aims to assemble diverse viewpoints and foster momentum.

Over 600 senior leaders, comprising C-suite executives, policymakers, and researchers from government, industry, and academia, participated in the AI Dialogue. They came together to propel bilateral cooperation in the AI domain.

In his remarks on the dialogue's importance, Dinesh K. Patnaik, High Commissioner of India to Canada, stated, “The India-Canada AI Dialogue 2026 encapsulates our collective vision for responsibly influencing the future of artificial intelligence. As we generate momentum towards the India AI Impact Summit 2026 in New Delhi, this partnership demonstrates how trusted allies like Canada can work with India to foster innovation that is inclusive, ethical, and globally pertinent.”

During the “India-Canada AI Dialogue 2026”, Evan Solomon, Canadian Minister of Artificial Intelligence and Digital Innovation, remarked, “AI is no longer an abstract concept — it’s transforming our work, governance, and interpersonal relations. The importance of the India-Canada AI Dialogue lies in its focus on impact, accountability, and human outcomes. Both India and Canada possess unique strengths and share a responsibility to ensure this technology benefits humanity, fortifies societies, and delivers tangible economic value.”

Furthermore, Doug Ford, Premier of Ontario, expressed his views on the significance of the India-Canada AI Dialogue 2026, stating, “India and Canada share a profound and enduring partnership, characterized by strong trade ties, investment, and collaborative research in emerging technologies such as AI.”

He also commended the Indian Consulate General in Toronto for hosting this crucial gathering and for its ongoing leadership in enhancing collaboration between the two countries.

This event also highlighted Toronto’s status as a global AI hub and its increasing role as a link between North American and Indian AI ecosystems.

In emphasizing the local ecosystem, Kapidhwaja Pratap Singh, Acting Consul General of India in Toronto, remarked, “Toronto is among the world’s most vibrant AI landscapes. Holding this Dialogue here facilitated meaningful interactions between India's rapidly evolving AI sector and Canadian innovators, establishing a solid groundwork for ongoing collaboration leading up to the India AI Impact Summit 2026.”