Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a roundtable meeting with the CEOs of leading American technology companies, including Google CEO Sundar Pichai, highlighting India’s growth potential and exploring opportunities for bilateral cooperation. The event took place at the Lotte New York Palace Hotel during the second phase of Modi’s three-day visit to the U.S.
The roundtable featured executives from 15 major US based firms, including prominent figures like Google CEO Sundar Pichai, Adobe CEO Shantanu Narayen, and NVIDIA CEO Jensen Huang.
The meeting included conversations about advanced fields such as artificial intelligence (AI), quantum computing, biotechnology, life sciences, information technology and communication, as well as semiconductor technologies, as stated by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA).
Expressing gratitude to the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) School of Engineering and its Dean for uniting the tech leaders, PM Modi emphasized that technological collaboration, including initiatives like the Initiative on Critical and Emerging Technologies (ICET), is central to the India-U.S. Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership, according to the release.
India – A global center for semiconductor manufacturing
Modi asserted his administration’s commitment to transforming India into the world’s third-largest economy. He encouraged American companies to leverage India’s growth story, emphasizing opportunities for co-development and co-production within the country. Emphasizing the significant economic transformation in India, the Prime Minister stated that his government is dedicated to establishing the country as a global center for semiconductor manufacturing.
Commitment to Intellectual Property and Innovation
During the conference, Modi reassured business leaders of India’s dedication to protecting intellectual property rights and fostering technological innovation. He highlighted the ongoing economic transformation in sectors such as electronics and semiconductor manufacturing, positioning India as a global hub for semiconductor production.
Focus on Biotechnology and AI
The Prime Minister introduced India’s BIO E3 policy, aimed at establishing the nation as a leader in biotechnology. He also addressed artificial intelligence, advocating for its ethical and inclusive use under the “AI for All” initiative.
Positive Reception from Tech Leaders
The participating CEOs expressed their enthusiasm for India’s ascent as a global technology hub, fueled by innovative policies and market opportunities. They recognized the potential for collaboration in startups as a means to drive innovation and develop new technologies.
Among those present at the roundtable were notable leaders such as Biogen Inc. CEO Chris Viehbacher, Bristol Myers Squibb CEO Chris Boerner, and HP Inc. CEO Enrique Lores.
Engagement with the Indian Diaspora
Earlier, Modi had addressed a large gathering of the Indian diaspora at the Nassau Veterans Coliseum in Long Island. He also held bilateral meetings with global leaders on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly, further reinforcing India’s international ties.
According to the Ministry of External Affairs, the PM on his final day of the trip, is scheduled to speak at the ‘Summit of the Future’ during the United Nations General Assembly in New York.