Artificial Intelligence – Guterres Calls for Science-Led AI Governance in Delhi
Artificial Intelligence – United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres used his visit to India to push for stronger global cooperation on artificial intelligence and faster progress in clean energy, holding a series of high-level meetings in New Delhi alongside his participation in the Global AI Impact Summit 2026.
Meeting Renewable Energy Leaders in the Capital
While in the national capital, Guterres engaged with representatives from India’s renewable energy sector, including voices from industry, finance, policymaking and civil society. The discussions focused on the country’s transition toward clean power and the broader global push to reduce dependence on fossil fuels.
In a message shared on social media, the UN chief said the exchanges reflected a shared belief that a shift to sustainable energy is achievable. However, he underlined that incremental steps would not be enough. According to him, only comprehensive changes across systems can accelerate the transition required to meet climate goals.
India has emerged as one of the fastest-growing renewable energy markets, and the meeting highlighted the country’s expanding role in the global climate conversation.
Bilateral Talks with Indian Leadership
During his stay, Guterres also held formal talks with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and met President Droupadi Murmu. The conversations covered cooperation on sustainable development, technology governance and multilateral engagement.
India’s hosting of the AI-focused summit provided an opportunity for deeper dialogue on how emerging technologies and environmental priorities intersect. Officials described the meetings as part of ongoing engagement between the United Nations and India on shared global challenges.
AI Governance Takes Centre Stage
Speaking at the Global AI Impact Summit 2026, Guterres stressed that artificial intelligence is advancing at a pace that outstrips global regulatory frameworks. He cautioned that policymaking must be rooted in scientific evidence rather than speculation or exaggerated claims.
The Secretary-General warned that growing technological competition and declining trust between nations are complicating international cooperation. He called on governments to prepare their societies for rapid technological change while ensuring that innovation benefits people broadly and responsibly.
According to Guterres, the global community must invest in people, strengthen safeguards and build common standards to prevent misuse of powerful AI systems. He described the current moment as one of uncertainty, where informed decision-making is essential.
United Nations Launches Independent AI Panel
Highlighting concrete steps taken by the United Nations, Guterres pointed to the creation of an Independent International Scientific Panel on Artificial Intelligence. The initiative aims to narrow knowledge gaps and provide objective analysis on how AI affects economies, labour markets and social systems.
The panel, recently endorsed by the UN General Assembly, consists of 40 experts drawn from diverse disciplines and regions. Its mandate is to produce evidence-based assessments that can guide member states as they develop AI governance frameworks.
Guterres said the body will work on an accelerated timeline, with an initial report expected ahead of a global dialogue on AI governance scheduled for July. The objective, he explained, is to shift discussions from abstract debate to coordinated technical action grounded in reliable data.
By placing scientific expertise at the centre of policymaking, the United Nations hopes to encourage more coherent international standards and reduce fragmentation in regulatory approaches.
Summit Brings Global Stakeholders Together
The India AI Impact Summit brought together policymakers, technology leaders, researchers, entrepreneurs and representatives from civil society across multiple countries. Sessions examined issues ranging from innovation and economic growth to ethics, data security and inclusive development.
Participants explored how artificial intelligence can be directed toward public good while addressing concerns related to accountability and equitable access. The gathering underscored the growing recognition that AI governance requires collaboration across governments, industry and academia.
Guterres concluded his remarks by reiterating that science-driven governance can accelerate solutions while making technological progress safer and more inclusive. As AI continues to reshape economies and societies, he argued, global cooperation remains critical to ensuring that its benefits are widely shared.