Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a significant roundtable discussion with top American technology leaders today, centred on fostering innovation and collaboration in India’s rapidly expanding tech sector.

This high-profile meeting took place at the Lotte New York Palace Hotel as part of PM Modi’s three-day visit to the United States, with a key segment of the visit unfolding in New York.

The event was hosted by the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) School of Engineering and brought together prominent CEOs from leading companies specialising in artificial intelligence, quantum computing, semiconductors, and biotechnology. Notable figures in attendance included Sundar Pichai of Google, Jensen Huang of Nvidia, Lisa Su of AMD, and Shantanu Narayen of Adobe, among others.

Had a fruitful roundtable with tech CEOs in New York, discussing aspects relating to technology, innovation and more. Also highlighted the strides made by India in this field. I am glad to see immense optimism towards India. pic.twitter.com/qW3sZ4fv3t

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) September 23, 2024

The focus of the discussion was on how cutting-edge technologies like AI, quantum computing, and biotechnology are shaping the global technology landscape and contributing to human development.

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) highlighted that the conversation explored how these innovations are being harnessed to revolutionise the global economy and improve the well-being of people worldwide, including in India.

During the meeting, Prime Minister Modi emphasised India’s commitment to promoting ethical and responsible use of artificial intelligence through its ‘AI for All’ policy, accoridng to the statement by the MEA.

The Prime Minister also reassured the technology leaders of India’s dedication to safeguarding intellectual property and creating a supportive environment for technology-driven innovation. He urged the CEOs to take advantage of India’s economic growth and its potential to become the world’s third-largest economy in the near future.

Another critical topic of discussion was the opportunities for investment in India’s burgeoning startup ecosystem. The potential of startups to act as a bridge for American companies entering the Indian market was highlighted, with an emphasis on their role in driving technological advancements and creating innovative solutions.

After the roundtable, Google CEO Sundar Pichai, while speaking to the press, said “Prime Minister Modi has pushed us to continue to making in India and designing in India.”  He also went on to say that the Prime Minister wants to make sure that ultimately AI is there to benefit the people of India. “He is challenging us to do more in terms of AI so that it benefits the people of India,” said Pichai.

Similarly, NVIDIA’s CEO Jensen Huang was also all praises about the Prime Minister, saying “PM Modi is incredible student. Every time I meet him, He wants to learn more about the technology.” Huang also revealed his plans to partner with India. “I am looking forward to partner with India in a deep way. We are partnering with many companies, start-ups and IITs in India,” he said.

Huang also said how AI really democratises computing. “This is India’s moment.”

The session was chaired by MIT Professor Anantha Chandrakasan, who expressed gratitude towards PM Modi and the participating CEOs for their active involvement. He also reiterated MIT’s commitment to leveraging technology for the greater global good and advancing the collaboration between the United States and India in essential technology sectors.

This roundtable marks a significant step in strengthening the ties between India and the United States, particularly in the field of technology, as both nations continue to explore avenues for mutual growth and innovation.