Cyprus is actively involved in high-level discussions on AI governance this week, as Deputy Research Minister Nicodemos Damianou represents the island at the India AI Impact Summit 2026 in New Delhi.
Photo: cyprus-mail.com
- Cyprus is actively involved in high-level discussions on AI governance this week, as Deputy Research Minister Nicodemos Damianou represents the island at the India AI Impact Summit 2026 in New Delhi.
Ai governance: Invitation from Indian Leadership
Following an invitation from Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Damianou travelled to India accompanied by Chief Scientist Demetris Skourides and Cyprus’ High Commissioner to India, Evagoras Vryonides. The summit runs from February 16 to 20 and has attracted over 20 heads of state and government, alongside representatives from an additional 60 countries and key figures from the global technology sector.
Photo: cyprus-mail.com
Focus on Sustainable Development
The theme of this year’s summit, “People, Planet & Progress,” highlights the importance of utilising artificial intelligence for sustainable development and inclusive economic growth. The event serves as a platform for leaders to discuss the responsible deployment of AI systems, aiming to enhance societal and economic outcomes.
Ministerial Session on Safe and Trusted AI
During the summit, Damianou participated in a ministerial session entitled “Safe & Trusted AI.” This session centred on regulatory convergence, international collaboration, and the sharing of best practices for the human-centred deployment of AI technologies. This dialogue is crucial as nations worldwide seek to navigate the complexities of AI governance and its implications.
Strengthening Bilateral Cooperation
On the sidelines of the summit, Damianou engaged in discussions with various government officials and international organisations. Notably, he met with the Minister of Technology and Biotechnology from the Indian state of Karnataka. Both parties expressed a firm commitment to enhance collaboration in technology, startups, and innovation.
Potential Membership in Global Innovation Alliance
Another significant topic of conversation was the prospect of Cyprus joining the Global Innovation Alliance (GIA). This network aims to facilitate startups and research institutions’ access to international innovation ecosystems and markets. Joining the GIA could provide Cyprus with valuable resources and connections in the rapidly evolving technology landscape.
A Continuation of Global AI Discussions
The India AI Impact Summit 2026 follows the global AI meeting held in Paris in February 2025, which laid the groundwork for coordinated international approaches to AI development. This series of summits reflects a growing recognition of the need for collaborative governance in the face of AI’s economic and societal impact.
Looking Ahead
Deputy Minister Nicodemos Damianou is scheduled to return to Cyprus on February 20, 2026. His participation in the summit is part of Cyprus’s broader strategy to engage with international partners on critical issues surrounding AI governance. The discussions and outcomes from this summit are expected to inform future policies and initiatives aimed at harnessing the potential of AI while ensuring its ethical and responsible use.
As nations continue to grapple with the rapid advancements in AI technology, the importance of dialogues like the India AI Impact Summit cannot be overstated. Cyprus’s involvement signifies its commitment to being an active player in shaping global AI governance.
