February 19, Colombo (LNW): Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake is set to deliver a keynote address today (19) at the AI Impact Summit 2026 in New Delhi, placing Sri Lanka firmly within the global conversation on the future of artificial intelligence.
The President arrived in the Indian capital on Tuesday following a formal invitation from Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He was received at the airport by India’s Minister of State Shri Raj Bhushan Choudhary, alongside senior diplomatic representatives, in what officials described as a cordial welcome reflecting the close ties between the two neighbours.
The summit, regarded as the first major global AI gathering to be staged in the Global South, has drawn leaders and delegates from more than 20 countries. Convened at a time when artificial intelligence is rapidly transforming industries, public services and labour markets, the forum aims to explore how emerging technologies can be harnessed responsibly and equitably.
In a statement issued by Sri Lanka’s High Commission in India, Colombo’s participation was portrayed as a clear indication of the growing strategic partnership between the two nations. The mission underscored a shared determination to ensure that technological progress remains people-focused, transparent and aligned with sustainable development goals.
Momentum in bilateral relations has gathered pace since President Dissanayake’s State Visit to India in December 2024, which produced the joint vision titled “Fostering Partnerships for a Shared Future”. Since then, cooperation has reportedly expanded across trade, digital innovation, infrastructure connectivity, skills development and cultural exchanges.
The Delhi summit has assembled heads of government, senior policymakers, technology firms, start-up founders and academic experts. Discussions are expected to cover AI governance frameworks, ethical safeguards, innovation ecosystems and the role of artificial intelligence in advancing climate resilience and inclusive growth.
In addition to his address at the summit, President Dissanayake is scheduled to hold bilateral meetings with Prime Minister Modi and other international counterparts, with talks likely to centre on strengthening digital collaboration, investment opportunities and regional stability. The three-day event concludes tomorrow.