Permanent Mission of India
New York
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UNSC Open Debate on ‘Artificial Intelligence and International Peace and Security’

Statement by Shri Sibi George, Secretary (West)
24 September, 2025

Thank you, Mr. President.

1. We appreciate RoK’s efforts for convening this debate.

2. India believes that emerging technologies, such as AI, have tremendous potential to be a force for economic growth and societal progress. At the AI Action Summit earlier this year, Prime Minister Modi highlighted the need for AI governance and standards that uphold our shared values, address risks, and build trust. They should take into account interdependence across borders, promote innovation, and ensure that AI is deployed in a manner that its benefits are accessible to all, especially to developing countries.

3. India continues to demonstrate leadership in advancing responsible development of AI. I’m happy to share that the India-AI Impact Summit will be held on 19-20 February 2026 in New Delhi, the first time in a country from the Global South, and will showcase the transformative role of AI in enabling inclusive and sustainable development. 

Mr. President,

4. There are both risks and benefits flowing from the growing adoption of AI and other emerging technologies. However, stigmatisation of technologies should be avoided. Access to technologies for developmental uses must not be restricted.

5. The use of AI in the military domain poses ethical, legal and security challenges. India is committed to responsible AIMD. We support collective global efforts to appropriately regulate the development, deployment and use of AIMD. These efforts should address legal and ethical concerns and the identification and mitigation of risks associated with military AI.

6. India has developed a framework for Evaluating Trustworthy AI in the defence sector to address the complex challenges and mitigate risks posed by modern AI technologies. We participate constructively in different multilateral processes which cover impact of AI on international security. We supported UNGA resolution 79/239.

Mr. President,

7. The responsible use of military AI in all circumstances, including conflict situations, is a commitment to be made by all countries, including those that are currently members of this Council. A country in our neighbourhood has sponsored cross-border terrorism under the nuclear overhang for decades, spreading instability in the region. While the delegation’s interest in the future of warfare is understandable, responsible conduct is applicable to all aspects of state policy.

8. India maintains its principled stance that global arms control and disarmament issues should be deliberated and concluded in an inclusive and transparent manner within the appropriate forums. The Disarmament Commission is deliberating on emerging technologies in the context of international security, including on military AI. The issue is also being discussed in the GA.

I thank you.

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