25th January 2026 – Last week, the Consulate General of India (CGI) in Toronto collaborated with the University of Waterloo and hosted the ‘India-Canada AI Dialogue 2026’. The event was in partnership with Canada India Tech Council and Zoho Inc. The event underscored India’s significant role in inclusive, responsible and impact-driven AI and the importance of India-Canada cooperation for shared economic and societal benefits.
As per the press release issued by the CGI, this dialogue is one of the few pre-summit events organized globally as a precursor to one of the biggest AI Summits in Global South — the ‘India AI Impact Summit 2026’ in New Delhi (February 19-20, 2026), designed to gather diverse perspectives and build momentum.
Speaking on the significance of the Dialogue, Mr. Dinesh K. Patnaik, High Commissioner of India to Canada said, “The India-Canada AI Dialogue 2026 reflects our shared vision for shaping the future of artificial intelligence responsibly. As we build momentum toward the India AI Impact Summit 2026 in New Delhi, this engagement highlights how trusted partners like Canada can collaborate with India to drive innovation that is inclusive, ethical, and globally relevant.”
Evan Solomon, Minister of Artificial Intelligence and Digital Innovation, Canada said, “AI is no longer an abstract or future-facing conversation — it’s shaping how we work, govern, and relate to one another. What makes the India-Canada AI Dialogue so important is that it puts impact, accountability, and human outcomes at the center of the discussion. India and Canada bring different strengths, but a shared responsibility: to make sure this technology serves people, strengthens societies, and delivers real economic value.”
Ontario Premier Doug Ford conveyed his message on the importance of India-Canada AI Dialogue 2026, said, “India and Canada share a deep and longstanding partnership, one built on robust trade and investment, people-to-people ties and research partnerships in emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence.” He also expressed his appreciation, saying, “Many thanks to the Consulate General of India in Toronto for convening this important gathering and for its continued leadership in fostering collaboration between our jurisdictions.”
Prof. Vivek Goel, President & VC, University of Waterloo added, “Our deep ties with India, including a large and vibrant Indian diaspora, create natural pathways for partnership. By collaborating on large-scale clinical datasets, driving public health innovation, and expanding equitable access to advanced digital tools, we can accelerate responsible and ethical AI technology that delivers meaningful benefits for communities in both our countries.”
