New Delhi served as the crucible for global discussions on the complex intersection of technology and international affairs as India hosted the 9th edition of the Global Technology Summit (GTS).
The flagship dialogue on geo-technology, co-hosted by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) and Carnegie India, convened in the capital from April 10 to 12, 2025. The summit, a critical platform for multilateral engagement on the future of technology, was formally inaugurated by External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar.
Embracing “Sambhavna”: The Core Theme
The central theme for GTS 2025 was “Sambhavna,” a Hindi word signifying “possibilities.” This theme underpinned the summit’s ambitious agenda, which sought to explore how emerging technologies can be harnessed to drive inclusive growth, strengthen digital governance, and deepen cross-border partnerships in an increasingly interconnected world. The focus on possibilities highlighted a forward-looking perspective, aiming to proactively shape technological trajectories for the benefit of humanity.
Scale and Scope of the Dialogue
The summit demonstrated a significant global footprint, featuring over 40 public sessions throughout its three-day run. These sessions brought together a diverse array of perspectives, with more than 150 speakers representing over 40 countries. The breadth of participation underscored the summit’s role as a key forum for dialogue among policymakers, industry leaders, scholars, and technology experts from around the world.
Key Arenas of Discussion
The discussions at GTS 2025 spanned a broad and critical spectrum of technology and policy areas. Participants delved into topics of paramount importance in the current global landscape, including:
* AI Governance: Examining frameworks and ethical considerations for the responsible development and deployment of artificial intelligence.
* Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI): Discussing the role of open, interoperable digital platforms in fostering innovation and public service delivery.
* Data Protection and Governance: Addressing the challenges and opportunities in managing data privacy, security, and cross-border data flows.
* Cybersecurity: Exploring strategies to enhance digital resilience against evolving threats.
* Space Security: Debating the implications of technological advancements for the security and sustainability of outer space activities.
* Emerging Technology Collaboration across the Global South: Fostering partnerships and knowledge sharing among developing nations to leverage technology for development.
* The Geopolitics of Technology: Analyzing how technological competition and cooperation are reshaping the international order.
* India’s Tech Evolution: Showcasing India’s progress and potential as a major player in the global technology ecosystem.
* International Tech Collaborations: Identifying pathways for effective partnerships in research, development, and deployment of critical technologies.
These sessions facilitated robust exchanges of ideas, contributing to a deeper understanding of the opportunities and challenges presented by rapid technological change.
Commitment to Environmental Sustainability
A notable aspect of GTS 2025 was its explicit commitment to environmental responsibility. The summit introduced a comprehensive Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) action framework. This framework included innovative measures such as the real-time monitoring and public display of the summit’s carbon emissions. This initiative aimed to underscore the importance of sustainability considerations in organizing large-scale international events and served as a practical demonstration of integrating environmental awareness into diplomatic and technological dialogues.
Conclusion
The 9th Global Technology Summit in New Delhi reinforced India’s growing prominence in shaping the global conversation on technology and its geopolitical implications. By bringing together a wide array of international stakeholders under the theme of “Sambhavna,” the summit successfully navigated complex issues ranging from AI ethics and cybersecurity to international cooperation and environmental sustainability. The discussions held are expected to inform policy approaches and foster collaborations, contributing to a more secure, inclusive, and sustainable technological future.
