India’s rising influence in global digital governance and artificial intelligence took center stage at the Carnegie Global Technology Summit, where international leaders lauded the country’s critical role in shaping a secure, inclusive, and innovation-driven cyberspace.
Maria Adebahr, Director for Cyber, Foreign and Security Policy at Germany’s Federal Foreign Office, emphasized India’s strategic relevance in today’s digital era. “This conference is a wonderful opportunity to deepen ties with India. Given the current geopolitical landscape, India is such an important country to collaborate with,” Adebahr stated. She called for global democracies to work together in building a cyberspace that is secure, transparent, and accessible, adding that artificial intelligence must be inclusive and secure by design. “India is a very good example because of its population, services, and digital infrastructure,” she added.
Jon Simonsson, Senior Director at the Swedish Prime Minister’s Office, echoed this sentiment, applauding India’s innovation ecosystem and high-tech potential. He cited the need for stronger institutional support for students and entrepreneurs, suggesting that easing pathways for innovation is key to progress. “Some capital is needed, but with over 100 unicorns, startups in India are well-positioned to invest and grow, just as DeepSeek has done,” Simonsson said.
The summit also highlighted the need for regulatory reform. Lt. Gen. (Retd) Raj Shukla, Member of the Union Public Service Commission, pointed out that India’s breakthroughs in ventures like DeepSeek are fueled by talent-led algorithmic innovation. He argued that excessive regulation hampers progress, stating, “We need innovation, but innovations and regulations don’t go together. India has to deregulate hugely for talent to truly take off.”
Throughout the summit, speakers agreed that India’s leadership in AI and deep tech relies not only on its talent and startup ecosystem but also on cultivating a culture that embraces openness, experimentation, and sustained investment.
