88 Nations Endorse New Delhi AI Summit Declaration

Eighty-eight countries, including major global powers, have endorsed the New Delhi Declaration on AI Impact at the India AI Impact Summit 2026 in New Delhi. The signatories include the United States, the United Kingdom, China, Brazil, Australia, Austria, Canada and Switzerland. The Declaration signals a broad international consensus on harnessing artificial intelligence for economic growth, social good and inclusive development, while respecting national sovereignty.

Global Consensus on Responsible AI

The Declaration reflects agreement on advancing AI through accessible, secure and trustworthy frameworks. It emphasises multistakeholder engagement and strengthened international cooperation. Participating nations have supported voluntary and non-binding mechanisms rather than rigid regulatory mandates. The document takes note of the Charter for the Democratic Diffusion of AI as a framework to widen access to foundational AI resources, promote local innovation and build resilient AI ecosystems within national legal structures.

Seven ‘Chakras’ of Cooperation

The framework is organised around seven key pillars, described as ‘Chakras’. These include democratising AI resources; promoting economic growth and social good; ensuring secure and trusted AI; advancing AI for science; expanding access for social empowerment; strengthening human capital development; and building resilient, efficient and innovative AI systems. Together, these pillars aim to create a balanced global AI architecture that supports both innovation and equity.

Ethos of Shared Global Benefit

Invoking the civilisational ideal of “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam” and the principle of “Sarvajan Hitaya, Sarvajan Sukhaya”, the Declaration underscores that AI’s benefits must be equitably shared. It stresses that AI’s promise can only be fully realised when its advantages are distributed across humanity, particularly to developing economies seeking access to foundational capabilities.

Important Facts for Exams

• The New Delhi Declaration on AI Impact was endorsed by 88 countries in 2026.
• The framework is structured around seven pillars termed ‘Chakras’.
• The Charter for the Democratic Diffusion of AI is voluntary and non-binding.
• The Declaration draws on the ethos of “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam”.

Balanced Approach in Global AI Debate

The Declaration marks a calibrated position in the global AI governance debate. While some jurisdictions favour stringent regulatory systems, others caution that overregulation may hinder innovation and deepen the digital divide. The Summit aims to catalyse long-term partnerships and position artificial intelligence as a key driver of sustainable economic growth through continued international collaboration.