New Delhi, February 20, 2026: India’s Information Technology and Electronics Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw has stated that all major countries have signed the declaration adopted at the recent AI Impact Summit, with the total number of endorsing nations expected to exceed 80. The announcement signals broad international consensus on the need to shape the future of artificial intelligence through cooperation, transparency and shared safeguards.
Speaking about the outcome of the summit, Vaishnaw said the declaration reflects a collective commitment to harnessing artificial intelligence for inclusive growth while addressing concerns related to safety, ethics and long-term societal impact. According to him, participation from leading global economies underscores the urgency felt across continents to frame common principles for emerging technologies that are rapidly transforming governance, industry and daily life.
The AI Impact Summit brought together policymakers, technology leaders, researchers and multilateral institutions to deliberate on the opportunities and risks associated with advanced AI systems. Discussions ranged from innovation and economic productivity to misinformation, data protection and responsible deployment of high-powered models.
Vaishnaw emphasized that India played a constructive role in facilitating dialogue between developed and developing nations, highlighting the importance of equitable access to AI capabilities. He noted that for countries in the Global South, artificial intelligence can serve as a catalyst for public service delivery, healthcare outreach, agricultural planning and education, provided adequate safeguards are in place.
Officials indicated that the declaration lays out broad guiding principles rather than binding regulations. These include commitments to foster innovation, strengthen digital public infrastructure, encourage research collaboration and ensure that AI systems are developed in ways that are transparent and accountable. Countries have also expressed intent to continue consultations on standards, interoperability and risk mitigation.
The minister added that with more nations expected to formally join in the coming days, the tally of signatories is likely to cross 80, marking one of the most widely supported multilateral statements on artificial intelligence to date. Analysts view the development as a sign that despite geopolitical differences, governments recognize the necessity of cooperation in managing technologies whose impact transcends borders.
India has been positioning itself as a key voice in global digital governance, advocating a balanced approach that encourages innovation while safeguarding citizens’ rights. The broad backing for the summit declaration, Vaishnaw said, demonstrates that consensus-building on emerging technologies is both possible and essential in a rapidly evolving digital era.
