New Delhi: Former UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has highlighted a stark contrast in global attitudes towards artificial intelligence, noting that countries like India display strong optimism while much of the West continues to approach the technology with caution and anxiety.
Speaking at the India AI Impact Summit 2026 in New Delhi, Sunak observed that public perception of AI differs significantly across regions. He said that in India there is widespread trust and enthusiasm about the technology’s potential, whereas in many Western nations uncertainty and concern remain dominant. According to him, these differing mindsets are likely to influence how countries shape policies and regulatory frameworks in the years ahead.
Sunak stressed that governments have a responsibility to ensure that citizens feel secure and confident about integrating AI into everyday life. Bridging the confidence gap, he said, is not solely a technical challenge but equally a matter of sound public policy and transparent governance.
He was speaking during a fireside conversation with Alexandr Wang of Meta at the summit, held at Bharat Mandapam. Their discussion focused on the future of AI governance and the importance of international collaboration in managing its rapid development.
The summit, which continues until February 20, has drawn policymakers, technology leaders, academics and civil society representatives from across the globe. It is regarded as a significant forum for shaping global approaches to AI regulation, safety standards and ethical use.
As the first major global AI gathering hosted in the Global South, the event aims to reflect the transformative potential of artificial intelligence while aligning with India’s broader vision of inclusive development. Participation includes representatives from more than 110 countries and 30 international organisations, with around 20 heads of state or government and nearly 45 ministers in attendance. The summit forms part of a wider international effort to strengthen cooperation on AI governance and its societal impact.
