The foundation said Ankur Vora will represent it at the summit, reiterating its commitment to ongoing health and development initiatives in India.
Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates will not deliver the keynote address at the India AI Impact Summit, the Gates Foundation confirmed. | ANI
Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates will not deliver the keynote address at the India AI Impact Summit 2026, the Gates Foundation confirmed on Thursday morning, putting an end to days of speculation over his participation in the Delhi event.
His name had not appeared on the official list of speakers, prompting questions about whether he would attend. The clarification also comes amid controversy over reports linking his name to the Epstein files.
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In a post on X, the Gates Foundation said it would instead be represented by Ankur Vora, president of its Africa and India offices, who is scheduled to speak later in the day.
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“After careful consideration, and to ensure the focus remains on the AI Summit’s key priorities, Mr Gates will not be delivering his keynote address,” the foundation said.
It added that its work in India would continue as planned. “The Gates Foundation remains fully committed to our work in India to advance our shared health and development goals,” the statement said.
No further details were provided.
The India AI Impact Summit 2026 has drawn global leaders, ministers, and technology executives to deliberate on artificial intelligence and its impact on governance, economic growth, and social development.
This is the fourth edition of the summit series. Earlier meetings were held in the United Kingdom, South Korea, and France. The Delhi edition is being projected as a platform to strengthen international cooperation in artificial intelligence while advancing India’s development priorities.
While Gates will not address the summit, the foundation’s representation ensures its presence at the event.
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