New Delhi, Feb 19 (NationPress) Prime Minister Narendra Modi and visiting Swiss President Guy Parmelin engaged in discussions aimed at enhancing India-Switzerland cooperation in the economic domain, focusing on trade, investment, and technology. This collaboration is particularly significant with the commencement of the India-European Free Trade Association (EFTA) Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement (TEPA) which became effective in October 2025.

Both leaders held fruitful conversations on the sidelines of the AI Impact Summit 2026 taking place in New Delhi.

“They deliberated on reinforcing the economic cooperation between India and Switzerland, especially regarding the implementation of the India-EFTA TEPA and future-oriented partnerships in AI innovation. Our relationship is set to promote technological collaboration, quality investments, and job creation for our youth,” the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) shared on X following the meeting.

Switzerland is set to host the subsequent AI Summit in Geneva in 2027.

“This summit signifies Switzerland’s commitment to advancing the global discourse on the responsible use of AI, as well as its international governance and regulation,” stated Parmelin at the inauguration of the India AI Impact Summit in New Delhi.

“AI is transforming our future at an unparalleled rate. It is crucial for governments to collaborate, share knowledge, and ensure that AI benefits everyone,” the Swiss President remarked on X.

Later, Parmelin visited the Switzerland pavilion at the Summit, which he highlighted as a testament to the country’s excellence in innovation and research.

“The development of AI must always ensure the protection of fundamental rights. Innovation should consistently pair with responsibility,” he asserted.

The theme of the India AI Impact Summit 2026 is 'Welfare for all, happiness of all'. It aspires to elevate India as a leader in AI while envisioning a future where AI promotes humanity, drives inclusive growth, and protects our shared planet.

Seven working groups anchor the Summit, adhering to three pillars: People, Planet, and Progress. These groups are dedicated to delivering tangible outcomes that showcase the impact of AI across various sectors. The seven themes include: AI for Economic Growth and Social Good; Democratizing AI Resources; Inclusion for Social Empowerment; Safe and Trusted AI; Human Capital; Science; Resilience, Innovation, and Efficiency.

The Summit has gathered more than 500 Global AI Leaders, comprising CEOs/CXOs, nearly 100 CEOs and Founders, 150 Academicians and Researchers, and 400 CTOs, VPs, and Philanthropists. It also involves over 100 government representatives, including more than 20 Heads of State and Government and around 60 Ministers and Vice Ministers.