AI Impact Summit in New Delhi adopts declaration on inclusive and cooperative AI development

Participants at the AI Impact Summit, held in New Delhi on 18–19 February 2026, adopted a joint declaration outlining shared priorities for the development and deployment of AI. The declaration frames AI as a pivotal technological shift and emphasises that its benefits should be widely shared.

The document sets out seven pillars, referred to as ‘Chakras,’ that structure future cooperation. These include human capital development, access for social empowerment, trustworthy AI systems, energy efficiency, AI for science, democratising AI resources, and the use of AI for economic growth and social good. The declaration stresses international cooperation and multistakeholder engagement, while also noting respect for national sovereignty.

On access to AI resources, the declaration highlights the importance of digital infrastructure and affordable connectivity as foundations for AI deployment. It references the Charter for the Democratic Diffusion of AI, described as a voluntary and non-binding framework aimed at promoting broader access to foundational AI tools and supporting local innovation.

In the area of economic development, the declaration notes the potential of AI applications, including open-source approaches, to contribute to scalable and adaptable solutions across sectors. It refers to the Global AI Impact Commons as a voluntary initiative intended to facilitate the sharing and replication of AI use cases.

Regarding security and trust, the declaration underscores the need for robust and secure AI systems. It references the development of a Trusted AI Commons, a voluntary collaborative platform intended to provide technical resources and best practices. The document also emphasises the importance of policy frameworks that balance innovation with public interest considerations.

In scientific research, participants recognised the value of shared AI research infrastructure and international collaboration. The declaration takes note of the International Network of AI for Science Institutions as a voluntary platform designed to connect scientific communities and pool research capabilities.

The declaration further addresses social empowerment, highlighting AI’s potential to expand access to knowledge and services. It notes the development of a collaborative platform to exchange practices and lessons on AI adoption for social inclusion.

Human capital development is identified as another priority, with references to education, workforce development, reskilling initiatives, and AI literacy. The document cites voluntary guiding principles and a workforce development playbook intended to support adaptation to AI-driven economies.

Finally, the declaration acknowledges growing energy and infrastructure demands linked to AI systems. It refers to voluntary guiding principles on resilient and efficient AI, as well as a playbook on resilient AI infrastructure.

The declaration is described as voluntary and non-binding. It concludes with a commitment to continued cooperation and implementation of shared objectives. The text was endorsed by 91 countries and international organisations, including the European Union and institutions such as the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD).