English
English
English
The visit is expected to deepen India–Finland cooperation in digital innovation, artificial intelligence, sustainable development, and education.
Finland PM to attend AI Impact Summit
New Delhi: The high-profile presence at the India AI Impact Summit 2026 continues to grow, with Finnish Prime Minister Petteri Orpo arriving in India to participate in the global event.
Orpo was received at the airport by Minister of State for Skill Development and Entrepreneurship Jayant Singh. According to MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal, the visit is expected to deepen India-Finland cooperation in digital innovation, artificial intelligence, sustainable development, and education.
The summit, being held from February 16 to 20 at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi, has drawn policymakers, global tech leaders, and industry experts from around the world.
Entry Restrictions Amid PM Modi’s Presence
With Prime Minister Narendra Modi attending the summit and hosting a dinner for state guests and industry leaders, security has been heightened at the venue. Delegates have been asked to vacate the main convention area by 4:30 pm on designated days due to VIP movement.
However, given the overwhelming participation, officials from the Electronics and IT Ministry confirmed that the AI Expo area will remain open until 8 pm from February 18 to accommodate attendees. Organisers said entry protocols were pre-planned to ensure smooth conduct amid high-profile attendance.
Sundar Pichai to Deliver Keynote on February 20
Adding to the global spotlight, Sundar Pichai, CEO of Google, has arrived in New Delhi and is set to deliver the keynote address on February 20. Pichai shared his excitement about returning to India and participating in the summit.
‘AI Will Solve Real Problems’: Ashwini Vaishnaw
Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw highlighted the massive youth participation at the summit, noting that nearly 2.5 lakh people have taken part so far. He described the enthusiasm among young innovators as inspiring and a sign that India is poised for major technological advancement.
Vaishnaw emphasised that India’s AI strategy is focused on solving real-world challenges - from boosting enterprise productivity and strengthening healthcare systems to transforming agriculture and addressing population-scale issues. He reiterated that AI adoption in India is being approached inclusively, ensuring widespread societal benefit.
The summit underscores India’s growing role as a global AI hub, blending policy direction, technological leadership, and youth-driven innovation.
