Delhi AI Impact Summit Convenes Global Leaders The AI Impact Summit opened in Delhi on 20 February 2026, gathering tech CEOs, policymakers, and researchers from more than 100 nations [1]. Delegates include heads of OpenAI, DeepMind, and senior officials from the United States, United Kingdom, and India [1]. The three‑day event aims to shape a coordinated approach to artificial‑intelligence safety and deployment [1].

DeepMind Chief Urges Immediate Threat Research DeepMind founder and CEO Demis Hassabis told reporters that “research on AI threats needs to be done urgently” and called for “smart regulation” and robust guardrails to prevent misuse and loss of control [1]. He warned that without rapid study, powerful systems could outpace existing safety measures [1]. Hassabis emphasized that the window for effective intervention is narrowing as AI capabilities accelerate [1].

Tech CEOs and Politicians Advocate Coordinated Regulation OpenAI chief Sam Altman echoed the urgency, urging “urgent regulation” to manage emerging risks [1]. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi stressed that nations must cooperate to capture AI’s benefits while mitigating dangers [1]. UK Deputy Prime Minister David Lammy highlighted political responsibility, urging legislators to work “hand in hand” with industry for public safety [1].

U.S. Delegation Opposes Centralized AI Governance White House technology adviser Michael Kratsios rejected any form of global AI governance, arguing that “AI adoption cannot lead to a brighter future if it is subject to bureaucracies and centralised control” [1]. He reiterated the administration’s stance of fully rejecting international regulatory frameworks for AI [1]. This position contrasts sharply with calls from other leaders for coordinated oversight [1].

China Nears Parity in AI Race, Hassabis Warns Hassabis noted that the United States and the West are only “slightly” ahead of China in AI development [1]. He warned that China could close the gap within months, heightening competitive urgency for robust safety research [1]. The comment underscores geopolitical tensions surrounding AI supremacy [1].

Summit Targets Joint AI Governance Statement Organizers expect the summit to conclude on Friday with a shared declaration from participating countries on handling AI risks [1]. The statement will aim to balance innovation with safety, reflecting inputs from tech firms and governments alike [1]. Over 100 nations are slated to endorse the final document, marking a potential milestone in global AI policy [1].