Why Are Leaders from Spain, Mauritius, and Seychelles in Delhi for the AI Impact Summit?
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Key Takeaways
New Delhi, Feb 18 (NationPress) President of Spain Pedro Sanchez, Prime Minister of Mauritius Navinchandra Ramgoolam, and Vice President of Seychelles Sebastien Pillay have landed in New Delhi on Wednesday to attend the AI Impact Summit 2026, highlighting the groundbreaking potential of artificial intelligence.
These global leaders received a warm reception from Indian ministers, symbolizing India’s dedication to enhancing international collaboration in AI, digital partnerships, and cultural exchanges.
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) shared a heartfelt welcome on X, stating, "A warm welcome to President Pedro Sanchez Perez-Castejon for the India-AI Impact Summit. He was greeted by Minister of State for Skills Development and Entrepreneurship Jayant Singh. President Sanchez’s visit will further enrich the ongoing festivities of the India-Spain Dual Year of Culture, Tourism, and AI."
Similarly, the Mauritian Prime Minister was welcomed by Minister of State for Jal Shakti Raj Bhushan Choudhary, with his wife Veena Ramgoolam accompanying him.
"We welcome a close friend and maritime neighbor! Prime Minister Navinchandra Ramgoolam of Mauritius was greeted warmly by Minister Raj Bhushan Choudhary upon his arrival for the AI Impact Summit 2026. Digital collaboration is a vital component of our Enhanced Strategic Partnership, rooted in strong historical ties," the MEA remarked.
Seychelles' Vice President Sebastien Pillay was also greeted enthusiastically by MoS Raj Bhushan Choudhary upon his arrival in New Delhi.
"As a close maritime ally, Seychelles’ involvement in the Summit presents a chance to leverage AI for the welfare of our populations and to bolster our partnership," the Ministry conveyed.
The five-day Summit is drawing participation from over 110 nations and 30 international organizations, featuring around 20 Heads of State and approximately 45 ministers.
Its goal is to align AI initiatives with India’s national vision of 'Sarvajana Hitaya, Sarvajana Sukhaya' (welfare for all, happiness for all), alongside the global principle of AI for Humanity.
The India-AI Impact Summit 2026 marks the fourth installment in its series, following previous editions in the UK (Bletchley Park, 2023), South Korea (2024), and France (2025). The Summit serves as a platform for leaders to deliberate on the ethical, economic, and social ramifications of AI while reinforcing partnerships in digital technology, culture, tourism, and maritime collaboration.
More dignitaries are expected to arrive throughout the day, maintaining the Summit’s focus on collaboration and inclusive AI-driven development.