AIAlliance – India to Join US-Led Pax Silica Initiative
AIAlliance – India is poised to formally sign on to Pax Silica, a United States-led initiative focused on strengthening artificial intelligence collaboration and safeguarding global supply chains. The announcement is expected during the Global AI Impact Summit currently underway in New Delhi, marking a new chapter in technology and economic cooperation between the two nations.
What Pax Silica Aims to Achieve
Pax Silica is spearheaded by the US Department of State as its flagship platform to promote responsible AI development while ensuring resilient supply networks among trusted partners. The declaration associated with the initiative emphasizes the importance of dependable supply chains in maintaining economic stability and shared security interests.
It also recognizes artificial intelligence as a transformative driver of long-term growth, innovation, and competitiveness. By bringing together like-minded nations, the initiative seeks to establish shared standards and closer coordination in emerging technologies.
Countries that have signed the declaration include Australia, Greece, Israel, Japan, Qatar, South Korea, Singapore, the United Arab Emirates, and the United Kingdom. Several others—including Canada, the Netherlands, the European Union, the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development, and Taiwan—are participating without formally signing the document.
US Delegation’s Visit to India
The US Department of State confirmed that Under Secretary of State for Economic Growth, Energy, and the Environment, Jacob Helberg, is visiting India from February 20 to 21. He is part of the American delegation attending the summit, which is being led by Michael Kratsios, Director of the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy.
During his visit, Helberg is expected to hold bilateral discussions with Indian officials and deliver remarks at the summit. According to the State Department, the talks will focus on expanding economic ties and deepening cooperation in emerging technologies. The visit will also mark the next phase of the American AI Exports Program, a component of the broader AI Action Plan designed to strengthen US partnerships in advanced technology sectors.
Broader Strategic Engagement on Critical Minerals
India’s participation in Pax Silica comes soon after its involvement in the Critical Minerals Ministerial hosted earlier this month by US Secretary of State Marco Rubio in Washington. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar represented India at the gathering.
On the sidelines of the ministerial, Jaishankar expressed support for the newly launched Forum on Resource and Geostrategic Engagement, known as FORGE. The platform succeeds the earlier US-led Mineral Security Partnership and aims to promote cooperation in securing critical mineral supply chains.
Addressing the ministerial, Jaishankar highlighted the risks posed by excessive concentration in global mineral supplies. He stressed the need for structured international collaboration to reduce vulnerabilities and diversify sourcing. He also pointed to India’s domestic initiatives—including the National Critical Minerals Mission and Rare Earth Corridors—aimed at improving supply resilience and supporting responsible trade practices.
India AI Impact Summit 2026 Takes Center Stage
The India AI Impact Summit 2026, described as the first global AI summit hosted in the Global South, has brought together policymakers, business leaders, researchers, and civil society representatives. The discussions are centered on responsible governance, inclusive innovation, and ensuring that AI technologies serve broader societal interests.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi used the platform to present India’s “MANAV” vision for artificial intelligence governance. The framework outlines five guiding principles: Moral and Ethical Systems, Accountable Governance, National Sovereignty, Accessible and Inclusive development, and Valid and Legitimate applications.
According to the Prime Minister, AI systems must adhere to ethical standards, operate under transparent oversight, and respect national data ownership. He also emphasized that artificial intelligence should not be concentrated in the hands of a few but should function as a tool that benefits wider society.
Speaking at the Leaders’ Plenary Session, Modi underscored the importance of a human-centered approach to AI. He called for a trusted global data framework, transparent safety mechanisms, and the integration of human values into AI systems. He also urged that the priorities of developing nations be reflected in global governance discussions.
India’s entry into Pax Silica, alongside its broader engagement in technology and critical minerals partnerships, signals a strengthening alignment with international efforts to secure the future of advanced technologies and global supply chains.