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Now in its second year of operation, Sushi Kissho by Miyakawa retains its MICHELIN Star, while 8½ Otto e Mezzo BOMBANA and Lai Heen continue their one‑star standing. Over on the Macau Peninsula, Feng Wei Ju at StarWorld Hotel maintains its unrivalled Two‑Star recognition for the tenth consecutive year.

Culinary Excellence Led by Visionary Chefs

Sushi Kissho by Miyakawa, the first international outpost of three‑star sushi master Chef Masaaki Miyakawa, continues to distinguish itself through its meticulous Edomae craftsmanship. Seasonal ingredients sourced directly from Japan ensure the restaurant delivers an experience defined by purity, precision, and the chef’s well‑established and tightly-held relationships with artisanal producers.

At 8½ Otto e Mezzo BOMBANA, Executive Chef Marino D’Antonio showcases Italian cuisine rooted in tradition yet shaped by contemporary technique. Highlighting an unyielding commitment to ingredient‑driven cooking and refined execution, he builds on the culinary legacy of the legendary Chef Umberto Bombana, whose pursuit of “tradition, quality, and consistency” has defined the restaurant’s ethos.

Scaling on the 51st floor of The Ritz‑Carlton, Macau, Lai Heen maintains its MICHELIN Star for the tenth year. Under Chinese Executive Chef Jackie Ho Hon Sing, the restaurant demonstrates mastery of Cantonese culinary arts through thoughtful sourcing and a disciplined, technique‑forward approach.

Feng Wei Ju, guided by Chef Chan Chek Keong, continues to define Hunan and Sichuan dining in Macau. Its tenth standout consecutive Two‑Star accolade reflects a menu that balances regional authenticity with elevated refinement—where bold, aromatic profiles are executed with exceptional skill.

Special Menus Celebrating The 2026 MICHELIN Accolades

To commemorate the MICHELIN Guide distinctions, Galaxy Macau will present a curated series of limited‑time dining experiences:

• Sushi Kissho by Miyakawa will host exclusive sake‑pairing dinners on March 20–21, featuring seasonal ingredients paired with Sake Hundred and guided by Sommelier Ivan Au Yang, one of only 604 Sakasho sake master sommeliers worldwide.
• 8½ Otto e Mezzo BOMBANA introduces an “Award‑winning Indulgent Lunch” featuring classic Sardinian flavours, available from Thursday to Sunday.
• Lai Heen launches the commemorative “Splendid Stars Menu,” presenting signature creations such as Crispy Foie Gras Mousse Fritter and Stir‑fried Lobster with Himematsutake and Caviar.
• Feng Wei Ju unveils a celebratory Degustation Menu showcasing ingredients such as beef loin and sea cucumber, exemplified by its signature Stewed Minced Chicken and Egg White with Matsutake in Bouillon—a hallmark of its culinary craftsmanship.

Committed to Advancing Macau’s Gastronomy Landscape

In a year marked by renewed MICHELIN acclaim, Galaxy Macau and StarWorld Hotel once again demonstrate how heritage‑driven craft and forward‑looking creativity can coexist at the highest level.

Both properties will continue to champion Macau’s status as a global dining destination by investing in talent development, ingredient excellence, and guest‑centric gastronomic experiences. Their culinary teams remain committed to elevating standards and shaping new dining experiences that keep Macau firmly on the global gastronomic map.

Hashtag: #GalaxyMacau

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About Galaxy Macau Integrated Resort

Galaxy Macau, The World-class Luxury Integrated Resort delivers the “Most Spectacular Entertainment and Leisure Destination in the World”. Developed at an investment of HK$43 billion, the property covers 1.1 million-square-meter of unique entertainment and leisure attractions that are unlike anything else in Macau. Nine award-winning world-class luxury hotels provide close to 5,000 rooms, suites and villas. They include Banyan Tree Macau, Galaxy Hotel, Hotel Okura Macau, JW Marriott Hotel Macau, The Ritz-Carlton, Macau, Broadway Hotel, Raffles at Galaxy Macau, Andaz Macau, and Capella at Galaxy Macau. Unique to Galaxy Macau, the 75,000-square-meter Grand Resort Deck features the world’s longest Skytop Adventure Rapids at 575-meters, the largest Skytop Wave Pool with waves up to 1.5-meters high and 150-meters pristine white sand beach. Two five-star spas from Banyan Tree Spa Macau and The Ritz- Carlton Spa, Macau help guests relax and rejuvenate.

As the dining destination in Asia, Galaxy Macau offers a wide variety of gastronomic delights, exquisite experiences and ingredients of the finest quality with over 120 dining options from Michelin dining to authentic delicacies.

Embark on a delightful and rewarding journey at Galaxy Promenade, the one-stop shopping destination boasting some of the world’s most iconic luxury brands. Be the first to get the latest limited-edition items; explore fascinating pop-ups by coveted labels and revel in fabulous shopping rewards and privileges. Our VIPs are entitled to a highly-curated experience with dedicated personal shoppers at guests’ service, and be invited to exclusive luxury brand events. A different caliber of privileges and rewards also await. Discover the joys of fashion and stand at the forefront of style and sophistication—Galaxy Promenade has everything guests need to stay ahead of the style game.

Galaxy Cinemas takes immersive movie experiences to the next level with the latest audio-visual technology, ultra-luxurious facilities and bespoke services; CHINA ROUGE, one-of-a-kind cabaret lounge that evokes the glamor of Shanghai’s golden era with stylish entertainment and customizable surrounds; and Foot Hub, which presents the traditional art of reflexology for authentic relaxation and revitalization. For Authentic Macau Flavours and Vibrant Asian Experiences, Broadway Macau – just a 90-second walk via a bridge from Galaxy Macau, has over 35 Authentic Macau & Asian Flavours at Broadway Food Street. The 2,500-seat Broadway Theatre plays host to world-class entertainers and a diverse array of cultural events.

Meeting, incentive and banquet groups are also catered to with a portfolio of unique venues in Galaxy Macau and an expert service team. Galaxy International Convention Center (GICC) is the latest addition to the Group’s ever-expanding integrated resort precinct and will usher in a new era for the MICE industry in Macau. GICC is a world-class event venue featuring 40,000-square-meters of total flexible MICE, and the 16,000-seat Galaxy Arena – the largest indoor arena in Macau.

For more details, please visit www.galaxymacau.com,www.broadwaymacau.com.mo and www.galaxyicc.com.

About StarWorld Hotel Macau
StarWorld Hotel, Galaxy Entertainment Group’s (GEG) first five-star flagship hotel, is located in the heart of Macau’s business and entertainment hub on the Macau Peninsula. The iconic 39-storey hotel is famed for its distinctly Asian characteristics of intelligence, experience and innovation and its star-rated quality in hospitality, entertainment, accommodation and dining.

Opened in 2006, StarWorld Hotel is the hub to see everything the city has to offer, and it appeals to tourists from all over the world. Renowned for its ultra-high levels of personal services to guests, StarWorld has won numerous prestigious awards including the 5-Star Diamond Award from the American Academy of Hospitality Sciences, the Top 100 Hotels of China designation from the China Hotel Industry Summit, the Top 10 Glamorous Hotels of China designation from the China Hotel Starlight Awards, the Supreme Award for the Most Glamorous Hotel of Asia from the Golden Horse Awards of China Hotels and the “Top Class Comfort Hotels” from Michelin Guide Hong Kong & Macau from 2014 to 2020.

For more information, please visit www.starworldmacau.com.

Co-organised by the Financial Services and the Treasury Bureau and Invest Hong Kong (InvestHK), the WGHK Summit will once again convene influential family office decision-makers and successors from around the world in Hong Kong. Participants from Asia, Europe, the Americas, Oceania, the Middle East, and Africa will join attendees from the Chinese Mainland and Hong Kong in insightful sharing. This year’s summit is going to showcase Hong Kong’s profound strengths and development potential through three core themes: “Strategic Asset Management for Family Legacy”, “Cultural Value Foundation for a Thriving Market”, and “Smart Tech Innovation Driving Capital Appreciation”. A number of heavyweight speakers will inspire the participants with their visionary thinking on the future of the family office ecosystem.

Nowadays, quite a number of family offices are deepening their philanthropic endeavours. Taking advantage of Hong Kong’s diverse and vibrant philanthropic ecosystem, a special fireside chat on “Sports and Philanthropy” is set for the summit to explore how sports and philanthropy can work together to create positive value for society.

The Secretary for Financial Services and the Treasury, Mr Christopher Hui, said, “The global landscape is evolving fast these days with geopolitics getting more complex. There has never been a better time for hosting the WGHK Summit than now to give family offices looking for diversified allocation and risk dispersion an occasion to connect with each other and explore opportunities. Hong Kong offers a highly favourable development environment with numerous potential and predictability for family offices, underpinned by our diversified international financial markets coupled with resilience, robust and transparent legal and tax systems, world-class financial and professional services, and well-developed ecosystems for philanthropy, arts, and innovation. The WGHK Summit is a flagship event hosted by our Government to showcase to the global wealth owners the unique advantages of this city. We will continue to consolidate Hong Kong’s leading position as a family wealth hub in the Asia-Pacific region, and adopt a multipronged approach to keep fostering the development of the family office sector through measures in areas such as tax concessions, talent attraction, investment facilitation and building of an ecosystem. All these will make Hong Kong even more attractive in all aspects to global family capital, positioning this city as the most preferred platform for ultra-high-net-worth families worldwide to manage their cross-border wealth.”

The Director-General of Investment Promotion at InvestHK, Ms Alpha Lau, noted, “According to the latest market study, the number of single-family offices in Hong Kong surpassed 3 380 by the end of 2025, reflecting a growth of over 25 per cent in two years – a testament to Hong Kong’s attractiveness as a global family office hub. The WGHK Summit serves as a pivotal platform for Hong Kong to deepen connections with the global family office community and foster cross-border collaboration. Against the backdrop of increasing trend of reallocation of global capital toward Asia, alongside rising trade protectionism and geopolitical uncertainty, Hong Kong will continue to leverage its unique advantage of enjoying strong support from the motherland and being closely connected to the world. We will provide global families with a predictable, one-stop environment for establishing a presence and operating in Hong Kong, helping them capture growth opportunities on the Chinese Mainland and in Asia, and steadily advancing long-term investment and multi-generational succession through diversified asset allocation and professional risk management.”

The WGHK Summit will feature a distinguished line-up of guest speakers:

• Dr Han Bicheng – Founder and Chief Executive Officer (CEO), BrainCo
• Mr Maximilian Kaufmann – Representative of Major Shareholder of Leica Camera AG
• Mr William Heinecke – Founder and Chairman, Minor International PCL
• Mr François Pictet – Managing Partner, Pictet Group
• Mr Yao Ming – Founder of Yao Foundation; Former Chairman of Chinese Basketball Association; NBA All-Star
• Mr Qiu Heng – Chief Marketing Officer, AgiBot
• Ms Irene Lee – Chairman, Hysan Development Company Limited
• Dr Ren Feng – Co-CEO and Chief Scientific Officer, Insilico Medicine
• Mr Wesley Ng – CEO and Co-founder, CASETiFY
• Mr Winfried Engelbrecht-Bresges – CEO, The Hong Kong Jockey Club; and
• Mr Michael Wilding – Group Chief Operating Officer, ZURU Group

Beyond the WGHK Summit, the Milken Institute and Bloomberg LP (Bloomberg) will also host the Global Investors’ Symposium (March 23) and the Family Office Forum (March 25) respectively in the same week, focusing on wealth management and global investment trends. The synergy generated by these three major forums will showcase Hong Kong’s unique charm in the family office landscape to the fullest to international capital, allowing participants to interact, exchange ideas, and explore opportunities together in Hong Kong.
Hashtag: #WGHK

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By Nitya Chakraborty The U.S.-Israel combo’s war against Iran entered its 20th day on March 19 with global diplomats monitoring closely the Chinese reaction to the continued decimation of Iran’s leadership and key installations by Trump and Netanyahu and also Tehran’s fierce retaliatory attacks against Israel as also the US allies in West Asia including […]

The article Decoding China-U.S. Relations Amidst Trump-Netanyahu’s War Against Iran appeared first on Latest India news, analysis and reports on Newspack by India Press Agency).

By Nitya Chakraborty On Wednesday, the 18th day of the U.S.-Israel combo’s war against Iran, Trump got two bad news simultaneously which made him ponder on how to go about on his next forward strategy to ensure Iran’s submission to the U.S. might. The first news was the European governments have refused to respond to […]

The article Trump Is Facing His Moment Of Truth In Iran War With Isolation From NATO appeared first on Latest India news, analysis and reports on Newspack by India Press Agency).

Themed “Where Miracles Happen,” the milestone event honors the pioneering spirit that has propelled generations of HKUST members to achieve remarkable feats. Officiating at the ceremony were Mr. CHAN Kwok-Ki, Chief Secretary for Administration of the HKSAR Government; Mr. LUO Yonggang, Deputy Director of the Liaison Office of the Central People’s Government in the HKSAR (LOCPG); and Dr. CHOI Yuk-Lin, Secretary for Education of the HKSAR Government. They were joined by HKUST Pro-Chancellor Dr. John CHAN Cho-Chak, Council Chairman Prof. Harry SHUM, Court Chairman Dr. the Honorable Andrew LIAO Cheung-Sing, and President Prof. Nancy IP to inaugurate a year of commemorative activities.

A Journey Forged with Vision and Purpose

In her welcome address, President Ip, who joined HKUST in 1993, offered a personal reflection on the University’s remarkable ascent. She witnessed its evolution into a world-class institution; a success built on academic excellence and a vibrant innovation ecosystem created from the ground up. She credited this profound transformation to the extraordinary foresight of the University’s Founding President, Prof. Chia-Wei Woo.

“From its very inception, HKUST was built on a bold and unprecedented vision: to become Hong Kong’s first research-intensive university,” President Ip shared. “Long before the Greater Bay Area concept existed, our founders, led by Prof. Woo, understood that Hong Kong’s future was inextricably linked with the region. This visionary courage saw them forge vital connections with the Chinese Mainland, laying the groundwork for what would become HKUST (Guangzhou) in 2022. Their courage, dedication, and tenacity built the unshakeable foundation on which we stand today.”

President Ip emphasized that the University’s success is measured not by rankings alone, but by its tangible impact on society. This founding DNA—to anticipate and meet societal needs with excellence—is now driving HKUST’s most ambitious chapter yet: the establishment of a new School of Medicine. “This is a transformative milestone, fulfilling a dream pursued for over three decades,” she stated. “We are deeply grateful to the HKSAR Government for its trust and partnership. Together, we will build a technologically advanced, humanistic medical school that ushers in a new era for healthcare in Hong Kong. Let us honor those who walked before us by carrying their courageous legacy into a new era of excellence.”

A Cornerstone of Hong Kong’s Global Leadership

Mr. Chan Kwok-Ki commended HKUST’s profound impact on Hong Kong’s development. “Over the past 35 years, HKUST has evolved from a bold new institution into a globally respected university, driven by visionary leadership, dedicated faculty, a continuing flow of talented students, and an enduring spirit of innovation. Its strong international rankings, vibrant start-up ecosystem, and diverse global student body demonstrate how research and education can deliver tangible societal impact,” he stated. “As Hong Kong advances its role as an international education hub, HKUST stands as a shining example of how universities can nurture global talent while supporting national development priorities. With strengths spanning artificial intelligence, science, and its planned School of Medicine, HKUST is exceptionally well-positioned to shape the future of innovation and talent development.”

Carrying a Pioneering Spirit into the Next Chapter

Prof. Harry Shum reflected on the University’s unique position. “Thirty-five years is a fascinating milestone. In human terms, it is the age of maturity, the point where youthful energy meets seasoned wisdom. And I see the same spirit alive in this institution. We still possess the curiosity and drive of our early years. But now we have the strength, the reputation, and the alumni network that only decades can build. The world is changing faster than ever before. If we are to serve the next generation as well as we have served the past, we must lead, we must innovate, and we must redefine what education can be. In this regard, HKUST is ready to open a new chapter.

“The HKSAR Government has appointed HKUST with the trust to build the third medical school in Hong Kong. We envision the University’s medical school that will bridge traditional medical curriculum with the latest technology and AI breakthroughs, will gradually revolutionize the entire medical spectrum—from diagnosis to treatment to recovery, prevention and personalized medicine. I am confident that this future-oriented medical school, which will admit its first cohort in 2028, will play an important role in educating and training a new generation of scientists and clinicians in the next 35 years and beyond.”

A Celebration of Innovation and Heritage

Reflecting the theme “Where Miracles Happen,” the ceremony showcased HKUST’s leadership in technology in a truly spectacular fashion. In a breathtaking fusion of tradition and innovation, the university’s Guangzhou campus team presented a robotic lion dance. This remarkable creation brought the classic folk art to life through advanced robotics, embodying the spirit of cultural heritage reimagined through cutting-edge engineering.

For the grand officiating ceremony, HKUST turned into an unexpected source of inspiration: humanity’s best friends. But there were no ordinary dogs. A team of robotic dogs—developed by Direct Drive Technology (an HKUST-nurtured startup), the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, and the Cheng Kar-Shun Robotics Institute—took center stage. Engineered to navigate complex, uneven terrain and perform dangerous industrial inspections, these four-legged helpers were given a far more meaningful mission for the day: carrying the ceremonial “Miracle Balls” to the officiating guests. As robotic dogs trotted majestically onto stage bearing their precious cargo, they symbolized the University’s commitment to channeling cutting-edge research into real-world applications—and its penchant for making miracles happen.

The ceremony reached its pinnacle with a dramatic display of innovation. In a symbolic gesture of bridging past and future, a drone—generously donated by distinguished alumnus Mr. WANG Tao, Founder of DJI—soared into the venue carrying the commemorative “35th Symbol Key.” As the drone gracefully descended to deliver the key to the officiating party on stage, it signaled the formal inauguration of the anniversary celebrations.

HKUST expressed its deep gratitude to Mr. Wang for his generous donation of two of the latest drone solutions to the university. These state-of-the-art drones will serve as an inspiration for faculty and students to explore and address new challenges in the rapidly evolving low-altitude economy.

The campus itself has been transformed with a “Circle of Time” visual theme, inspired by the iconic Sundial sculpture—a symbol of the University’s enduring legacy and its continuous measurement of progress in education, research, and knowledge transfer.

A Legacy of Excellence and National Trust

Since its founding in 1991, HKUST has risen to rank among the world’s top 50 universities. This commitment to excellence is underscored by the deep trust the nation has placed in the University. Following the reorganization of two existing State Key Laboratories, HKUST has secured approval from the Ministry of Science and Technology to establish a new one, further strengthening its role in advancing cutting-edge research critical to national development.

In a major national space endeavor, HKUST is developing a multi-functional robot for the historic Chang’E-8 lunar mission, designed to operate on the lunar surface and contribute to China’s advancing space exploration capabilities. The University is also leading the development of a high-precision, point-source greenhouse gas detection instrument. This groundbreaking project is set to make history as it will become HKSAR’s first payload to China’s Tiangong Space Station aboard the Tianzhou cargo spacecraft for research and application.

Celebratory Events

A full year of celebratory activities is planned, including co-hosting Asia Universities Summit with Times Higher Education, an AI Film Festival, and joint celebrations with HKUST (Guangzhou).

Global Thought Leadership

Following the symposium held earlier this year, where multiple Nobel laureates and world-leading scholars were invited to engage with HKUST faculty, students and alumni, the University will co-host the THE Asia Universities Summit 2026 with Times Higher Education (THE) this April. The event will draw university presidents and industry leaders from around the world to Hong Kong to explore Asia’s leadership role in driving global change. HKUST will also host the China Association of Higher Education’s flagship “World University Presidents Forum” for the first time in Hong Kong.

AI and Innovation Thematic Events

HKUST will organize a series of events focused on AI, technology governance and creative culture—including an AI Film Festival—to highlight the University’s leadership and societal impact in AI.

Building the HKUST Community

The University will host joint celebrations across its Clear Water Bay and Guangzhou campuses, including a year-long blood donation drive, a marathon, a “Mixed Reality x AI” art exhibition, and more, to foster closer interaction between faculty and students from the two campuses. HKUST will also organize a grand anniversary gala dinner to celebrate with faculty, students, alumni and community leaders, alongside a digital commemorative booklet that recounts the University’s 35 years of outstanding achievements with society.

Hashtag: #HKUST

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About The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology

The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) (https://hkust.edu.hk/) is a world-class university known for its innovative education, research excellence, and impactful knowledge transfer. With a holistic and interdisciplinary pedagogy approach, HKUST was ranked 6th in the QS Asia University Rankings 2026, 3rd in the Times Higher Education’s Young University Rankings 2024, and 19th globally and 1st in Hong Kong in the Times Higher Education’s Impact Rankings 2025. Thirteen HKUST subjects were ranked among the world’s top 50 in the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2025, with “Data Science and Artificial Intelligence” coming in 17th worldwide and first in Hong Kong. Our graduates are highly competitive, consistently ranking among the world’s top 30 most sought-after employees. In terms of research and entrepreneurship, over 80% of our work was rated “internationally excellent” or “world leading” in the Research Assessment Exercise 2020 of the Hong Kong’s University Grants Committee. As of January 2026, HKUST members have founded over 1,900 active start-ups, including 10 Unicorns and 21 exits (IPO or M&A).

By Nitya Chakraborty As the U.S. Israel war against Iran entered its fourteenth day on Friday March 13, in the diplomatic corridors in the UN headquarters in New York and in other major capitals including the EU headquarters in Brussels, speculation has started on what can be the likely stand of Iran’s two allies China […]

The article China, Russia Join Hands To Move Cautiously In Defending Their Ally Iran In War Against U.S. appeared first on Latest India news, analysis and reports on Newspack by India Press Agency).

Hosting New Energy Summit to Connect Global Experts Insights on New Energy Landscape

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 13 March 2026 – Centre of Advanced Power and Autonomous Systems (APAS), under the Hong Kong Productivity Council (HKPC),made its debut at The Battery Show Asia held from 10 to 12 March. During the exhibition, APAS set up a dedicated showcase area to present eight innovative battery technology solutions featuring high safety standards and intelligent capabilities for the first time. In parallel, APAS hosted the second edition of the New Energy Summit during the exhibition. The summit brought together five industry experts and scholars from Hong Kong, Singapore, Thailand, India and Switzerland to deliver speeches on various topics related to new energy and energy storage. Speakers shared the latest industry developments and application trends, fostering international technology exchange and collaboration.

Mr Yonghai DU, Chief Innovation Officer of HKPC and General Manager of APAS, said, “In line with the strategic priorities set out in the outline of the 15th Five-Year Plan for emerging and future industries such as new energy, advanced energy storage and hydrogen energy, energy technologies are entering an unprecedented period of growth. The outline also emphasise the pursuit of smart, green, and integrated development of industry, injecting long-term momentum for the new energy development. For many years, HKPC has been committed to market-led technology R&D. APAS focuses on areas including new energy technologies, green transportation, smart mobility, intelligent systems and emerging applications, actively translating research outcomes into market-ready solutions to help industries enhance technological capabilities and industrial value.”

He added, “Through this international platform, we hope to strengthen our collaboration with enterprises and research institutions from around the world. Hong Kong can play a more proactive role as a connector between Chinese Mainland and the global market in the development of innovation, international standards and the practical application of new energy technologies, thereby enhancing the city’s global competitiveness in the new energy industry. Looking ahead, APAS will continue to focus on research and practical applications in new energy and intelligent systems, while advancing technological innovation and cross-regional collaboration to support both the nation and Hong Kong in fostering emerging industries and future industries.”

First Participation in The Battery Show Asia, Highlighting Battery Technology Achievements

The Battery Show Asia brings together more than 20,000 industry representatives from Chinese Mainland, Japan, Korea, Southeast Asia, India, Europe and the United States, including policymakers, technology innovators, engineers, manufacturers and industry experts. Covering battery manufacturing, energy storage solutions and new energy transportation industries, the exhibition serves as an international platform integrating technology showcase, industry exchange and business collaboration.

In its first participation in the exhibition, APAS showcased its research strengths in new energy technologies and emerging applications by presenting a range of innovative battery technology solutions. The showcase aims to contribute to the development of the battery industry while providing an important platform for Hong Kong to connect with global technologies and markets, facilitating cross-regional exchange and collaboration.

APAS set up a dedicated exhibition area to present several research outcomes developed in collaboration with industry partners, including:

• Battery Cell Technologies:
  • High-performance Sodium-ion Battery: Using stable poly-anionic phosphate cathode, the battery enables rapid storage and release of sodium-ions while offering high safety and cost efficiency. It is suitable for applications such as low-speed electric vehicles, power batteries and large-scale energy storage. Looking ahead, APAS will collaborate with industry partners to establish large-scale production capabilities for high-performance sodium-ion battery, further optimising its performance and cost-effectiveness while exploring deployment in low-speed electric vehicles and utility-scale energy storage systems.
• Battery Systems and Solutions:
  • Explosion-Proof High-Energy Battery Systems:This solution features proprietary safety technology that prevents thermal runaway, delivering reliable power in the most challenging environments, engineered for demanding marine and portable power applications. APAS will assist partners in optimising battery module design and thermal management systems to enhance product performance and align R&D processes with industry standards. This will support partners in establishing manufacturing facilities in Hong Kong and expanding into overseas markets.
  • Yacht Battery System: The system integrates advanced solid-state battery technology with an intelligent Battery Management System (BMS) to eliminate risks associated with traditional liquid electrolytes, including leakage, corrosion and thermal runaway. It is specifically designed to withstand the high-humidity, high-vibration and salt-spray conditions inherent to open-water yacht operations. APAS is currently supporting partners in obtaining international battery standard certifications to facilitate entry into the global market.

These solutions feature high safety standards, intelligent capabilities, and flexible applications. They support a wide range of sectors, including electric transportation and smart mobility, marine and industrial applications, specialised equipment, aerospace and high-end manufacturing, medical devices, consumer electronics, home assistive equipment and portable energy storage for travel.

Hosting New Energy Summit to Jointly Build a Sustainable Future

During the exhibition, APAS also hosted the second New Energy Summit, which brought together industry leaders and academic experts from Hong Kong, Singapore, Thailand, India and Switzerland. The summit focused on key topics related to new energy development and applications, providing a platform for speakers to share insights and engage in discussions with industry professionals in attendance.

The summit focused on two key themes — new energy and advanced materials — bringing together global experts to explore technological development and industrial applications. In the new energy sector, a representative from The Hong Kong and China Gas Company Limited introduced innovative hydrogen energy technologies and their potential applications in promoting clean energy development in Hong Kong. Representatives from energy technology companies and alliances in Switzerland, India and Thailand shared the latest trends and practical applications in energy storage technologies, as well as the integration of renewable energy with smart infrastructure. In the field of advanced materials, a scholar from the Department of Materials Science and Engineering at the National University of Singapore highlighted the critical role of nanotechnology in energy and sustainable development, offering insights into the future landscape of sustainable new energy.

Through this cross-regional and cross-industry platform, APAS aims to promote international technology exchange and collaboration, accelerate the application of new energy technologies and drive industry transformation, contributing to a more resilient and sustainable future energy ecosystem.

Advancing Technologies onto the Global Stage, Reinforcing Hong Kong’s Connectivity Advantages

HKPC actively participates in various international exhibitions and industry exchange activities to showcase innovative solutions co-developed with industry partners. Leveraging Hong Kong as a platform, HKPC supports enterprises in expanding into international markets and advancing cutting-edge technologies and standards worldwide.

Through international exhibitions and collaboration initiatives, HKPC further strengthens Hong Kong’s role as an important connector between Chinese Mainland and the world. In line with the Government’s 2026-27 Budget to attract large-scale international exhibitions to Hong Kong and promote the city’s exhibition brand globally, HKPC will continue to participate in international exhibitions and foster industry exchanges to drive innovation showcase and collaboration.

Hashtag: #APAS

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About Centre of Advanced Power and Autonomous Systems (APAS)

Centre of Advanced Power and Autonomous Systems (APAS) (formerly Automotive Platforms and Application Systems R&D Centre) was established in 2006 and is fully integrated as a business division under HKPC on 1 April 2025. APAS continues to undertake market-led R&D programmes spanning green transportation, smart mobility, intelligent systems and emerging applications, as well as commercialises R&D results in collaboration with industry, universities and technology institutes to enhance the competitiveness of Hong Kong’s automotive and other transportation sectors in new energy and smart driving.

About Hong Kong Productivity Council

The Hong Kong Productivity Council (HKPC) is a statutory body established in 1967, dedicated to enhancing the productivity and competitiveness of Hong Kong enterprises through world-class applied R&D, innovative technology services, and integrated manufacturing solutions. As a market-oriented, international R&D organisation, HKPC leverages its deep expertise and extensive industry experience in key areas such as AI, advanced manufacturing, life and health technology, green technology and new energy to drive new industrialisation and support the growth of emerging and future industries.

HKPC focuses on addressing businesses challenges and industrial technology needs, promoting the full integration between technological and industrial innovation. Through technology transfer, product innovation, intellectual property protection and commercialisation of R&D outcomes, the Council fosters collaboration with the local business community as well as top global R&D institutions, delivering added value to industries and advancing the development of new productive forces. HKPC’s world-class R&D achievements have been widely recognised over the years, winning an array of local and overseas accolades, reinforcing Hong Kong’s role as an international innovation and technology centre and a smart city.

To help enterprises capitalise on Hong Kong’s strengths in international connectivity to expand into global markets, HKPC offers comprehensive overseas expansion services tailored to critical areas including product development, technology, manufacturing, and management, enabling businesses to successfully go global from Hong Kong.

HKPC is also committed to providing timely and practical support to SMEs and startups with timely and practical, assisting them in accessing Government funding programmes. Through its FutureSkills training initiatives, HKPC helps both industry and academia stay ahead in latest digital and STEM technologies, nurturing a future-ready talent pool for Hong Kong.

For more information, please visit HKPC’s website: www.hkpc.org/en.

A major highlight was the prestigious Asia-Pacific Association for International Education (APAIE) 2026 Conference and Exhibition, which ranks among the world’s top three international higher education conferences. The event attracted over 3,500 leading international education professionals to explore the latest trends and critical issues in higher education.

Speaking at the opening ceremony of APAIE 2026, the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR)’s Secretary for Education, Dr Christine Choi said, “To further promote higher education in Hong Kong to the world, we are dedicating this week as the ‘Study in Hong Kong’ Week, during which we will share our success stories and connect more closely with partners worldwide.”

“Under the “one country, two systems” principle, Hong Kong enjoys the distinctive advantages of being part of China with strong support from our Motherland and at the same time being centrally located in Asia.

“Our universities are globally recognised, with five of them within the world’s top 100 and Asia’s top 20. Hong Kong claimed all top four spots in the ranking of the world’s most international universities last year. Indeed, one in every four of our students come from outside Hong Kong. The proportion is even higher for academic staff, with around 70 per cent from elsewhere.”

Held under the theme “Asia-Pacific Partnerships for the Global Good”, APAIE 2026 featured pre-conference workshops, summit forums, keynote speeches, and exchange activities.

Dr Choi met with education officials and representatives from various regions on international education development trends and co-operation. She held separate meetings with the State Secretary of the Ministry of Education, Research, Development and Youth of the Slovak Republic, Mr Róbert Zsembera, and the Director General of the International Cooperation Department of the Ministry of Education and Training of Vietnam, Dr Nguyen Thu Thuy, to exchange views on the development, co-operation, and promotion of international higher education.

Dr Choi also toured the “Study in Hong Kong” Pavilion, where she learned about the promotional efforts of University Grants Committee (UGC)-funded universities and how they expand international networks to recruit students from various regions for study and exchange in Hong Kong. She also visited other booths at the exhibition, exchanging views on higher education development with representatives from various countries and regions.

Dr Choi noted that Hong Kong, as Asia’s world city, possesses advantages in global connectivity, world-class infrastructure, and rich cultural experiences that attract outstanding talent.

During the Week, UGC-funded universities hosted campus tours, allowing overseas guests to experience first-hand the fusion of diverse cultures from different regions. Universities also organised student exchange activities to foster friendships among international students from different regions, deepen their understanding of Hong Kong, and help them better integrate into local campus life.

“While Hong Kong is highly popular among students from the Chinese Mainland, those from other parts of the world, especially in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and Belt and Road countries or regions, have increased significantly in recent years,” Dr Choi said.

“As we welcome more non-local students to our schools and universities, we hope Hong Kong can serve as a springboard for them to engage with the Chinese Mainland and the wider Asia-Pacific, and as a pathway to widen collaborations across this vibrant region.”

Hashtag: #hongkong #brandhongkong #asiasworldcity #StudyinHongKong #Asia-PacificAssociationforInternationalEducation #APAIE

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With the rapid development of artificial intelligence, highly Autonomous Networks are becoming a crucial direction for the communications industry, and the importance of industry collaboration is increasingly prominent. To this end, the A2A-T protocol, including the IG1453 beta version and the enhanced prompt meta-model IG1453A, was jointly released by global telecommunications industry partners at the TM Forum Accelerate Week on February 6, 2026. It aims to provide a unified interaction framework for multi-agent collaboration, addressing challenges faced by operators in automated production, such as collaboration efficiency, reliability, and security.

As a standardized agent interaction protocol, A2A-T marks a new stage in agent interaction, unlocking three major industry breakthroughs: a revolutionary improvement in integration efficiency, reducing the system integration cycle from “months” to “days”. Breaking the boundaries of task collaboration to support complex cross-domain, cross-vendor workflows; and accelerating industry ecosystem convergence by lowering interconnection barriers through unified standards, fostering a sustainable collaborative ecosystem.

While standards chart the course for the industry, open source is the optimal path to achieve widespread interoperability and rapid innovation. In line with the evolutionary consensus of the Autonomous Network industry, Huawei is going to open source the core supporting software for the A2A-T protocol, to practically propel this standard from industry consensus to global deployment.

This open source project will encompass key components for implementing the A2A-T protocol, including:

• A2A-T Protocol SDK: Provides integration tools for standardized interaction between agents.
• Registry Center: Enables authentication, addressing, and skill management for multiple agents.
• Orchestration Center: Supports low-code/no-code visual workflow orchestration, with pre-built high-value solution packages.

More detailed information will be officially announced during MWC 2026 at the Global Autonomous Network Industry Summit​ (14:30~16:00, March 2, 2026, Sofitel Barcelona Skipper Hotel). We cordially invite global industry partners to attend the launch event on-site or follow the project’s progress through online channels, working together to promote the prosperity of the Agentic Internet.
Hashtag: #Huawei

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By Ashok Nilakantan Ayers NEW YORK: When Narendra Modi walked into the Knesset and told Israel’s parliament during his visit to Israel on February 25-26, that “peace and stability in West Asia are directly linked to India’s security,” he was doing more than delivering a diplomatic courtesy. He was planting a flag. India, under its […]

The article How Narendra Modi Shattered The Indian Foreign Policy Tradition During Visit To Israel appeared first on Latest India news, analysis and reports on Newspack by India Press Agency).

The launch marks a significant step in expanding Malaysian retail investor participation in financial products through blockchain technology

TOKYO, JAPAN – Media OutReach Newswire – 26 February 2026 – Kenanga Investment Bank Berhad (“Kenanga Group“), Malaysia’s leading independent investment bank and the Stellar Development Foundation (“Stellar”), a US-based non-profit organisation that supports the Stellar network, yesterday introduced Myrra, a dedicated token platform that leverages the Stellar blockchain to enable the tokenisation of real world-assets.

The inaugural deployment on the Myrra platform is the tokenisation of the Kenanga Money Market Fund (“KMMF“) and the Kenanga Islamic Money Market Fund (“KIMMF“) (collectively, the “Funds“) managed by Kenanga Investors Berhad (“Kenanga Investors“). The Funds represent the first tokenised unit trust funds to go live within the Malaysian market.

Through this initiative, investors can now transact blockchain-based digital representations of the Funds’ units through Myrra. Tokens are issued on a 1:1 basis, with each token representing a unit of either fund. This ensures the digital tokens function exactly like traditional fund units, while prioritising regulatory compliance, legal parity with existing unit holders, and operational integrity.

The reveal took place at the Blockchain Summit 2026, co-organised by Credit Saison and Pacific Meta as part of Japan Fintech Week.

By tokenising its Malaysian Ringgit money market funds using trusted Stellar blockchain infrastructure, Kenanga Group is bringing its money market products directly to a broader segment of Malaysian investors, enabling the purchase or selling of tokens directly on Myrra’s web portal.

“The launch of Malaysia’s first tokenised money market funds on the new Myrra platform represents a major step forward in our Group-wide commitment to driving digital innovation across the Malaysian capital markets,” said Datuk Chay Wai Leong, Group Managing Director of Kenanga Group. “By deploying on the Stellar network, we are able to contribute to the development of a digital public infrastructure that aligns with Malaysia’s vision of becoming a regional centre for blockchain-enabled finance.”

“The implementation of tokenisation is a strategic initiative to evolve our existing distribution and operational processes and capabilities through the operational efficiencies offered by Distributed Ledge Technology,” said Datuk Wira Ismitz Matthew De Alwis, Chief Executive Officer and Executive Director of Kenanga Investors. “We believe this will work towards driving investor participation without compromising regulatory standards and transparency.”

Operating for more than a decade, Stellar is one of the earliest blockchains designed specifically to support payments, asset issuance, and financial products in a compliance-forward and transparent manner. It hosts Franklin Templeton’s Benji token, a tokenised U.S. Treasury money market fund primarily used by institutional users for on-chain settlement and peer-to-peer transfers. Stellar also powers MoneyGram’s large-scale cash-to-crypto on/off-ramp across 170 countries using USDC and supports the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (“UNHCR“) in distributing USDC-based aid that refugees can redeem even without bank accounts.

“Tokenisation drives real-world utility and access when it is built on infrastructure that institutions and regulators trust,” said Jose Fernandez da Ponte, President and Chief Growth Officer at the Stellar Development Foundation. “Stellar was designed from the outset to support regulated financial products, increase access and provide the rails for enterprise-grade assets to move securely. This deployment by Kenanga Group is a prime example of how digital public infrastructure is scaling on Stellar making financial services more accessible, efficient, and inclusive for everyone across the globe.”

Myrra represents a milestone in addressing a tokenised asset opportunity in Malaysia, estimated at US$43 billion by 2030. It builds upon recent efforts by the Securities Commission Malaysia to advance tokenised capital market products within a framework that balances innovation with investor protection. By applying blockchain and Distributed Ledger Technology to familiar financial products, Kenanga Group is taking a pragmatic approach to financial innovation and inclusion while positioning Malaysian investors for a global transition toward faster settlement and enhanced transparency.

The KMMF aims to provide investors with a regular income stream while maintaining capital stability by investing entirely in money market instruments, debentures, and deposits. Meanwhile, the KIMMF offers similar benefits aligned with Shariah principle. Both Funds cater to investors who want stable, short-term returns with minimal volatility.

For more information about Myrra, please visit myrra.my.Hashtag: #KenangaGroup #Myrra #Tokenisation#BlockchainFinance #FinTech

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

Kenanga Investment Bank Berhad (197301002193 (15678-H))

Established for over 50 years, Kenanga Investment Bank Berhad (“Kenanga” or “The Group”) is a leading financial group in Malaysia, offering a wide range of services, including equity broking, investment banking, treasury, Islamic banking, listed derivatives, investment management, wealth management, structured lending, and trade financing. The Group’s digital innovations include the launch of KDi GO, a wealth-centric app, along with Kenanga Digital Investing, an A.I. robo-advisor, and game-changing products such as Rakuten Trade, Malaysia’s first fully digital stockbroking platform developed through a joint venture with Japan’s Rakuten Securities, Inc. This digital expansion also extends to the digital assets space through the Group’s investment in Kinetic DAX Sdn Bhd (formerly known as Tokenize Technology (M) Sdn Bhd).

Kenanga has garnered multiple industry accolades, including top honours at the Bursa Excellence Awards, Asia Asset Management’s Best of the Best Awards, and The Morningstar Awards, recognition for its sustainability leadership at The Edge Malaysia ESG Awards and the Euromoney Awards for Excellence, and further acknowledgements for its corporate governance and sustainability excellence at the National Corporate Governance and Sustainability Awards. As one of the highest scoring constituents of the FTSE4Good Bursa Malaysia Index and a Participant of the United Nations Global Compact, the Group continues to drive collaboration, innovation, and sustainability in the financial industry.

Disclaimer: The Replacement Master Prospectus (including all supplemental and ancillary documents thereto) and the Product Highlight Sheet (“PHS”), have been registered and/or lodged with the Securities Commission Malaysia (“SC”), who takes no responsibility for its contents and related advertisement or marketing materials, does not indicate that the SC has recommended or endorsed the product/service. The material has not been reviewed by the SC. Investors have the right to request for a copy of the RMP, PHS and other relevant product disclosure documents which are available at our office, at any authorised distributors and our corporate website before making investment decisions. If you are in doubt when considering the investment or any of the information provided, you are advised to consult a professional adviser. A Fund’s track record does not guarantee its future performance. Kenanga Investors Berhad is committed to prevent conflict of interest between its various businesses and activities and between its clients/director/shareholders and employees by having in place procedures and measures for identifying and properly managing any apparent, potential and perceived conflict of interest by making disclosures to Clients, where appropriate. Kenanga Investors Berhad 199501024358 (353563-P).

OpenAI’s chief executive Sam Altman delivered a candid message to students at the Indian Institute of Technology Delhi, telling them that conventional career guidance may be of limited value as artificial intelligence reshapes the world of work. Speaking at an interactive session in Dogra Hall, Altman said that younger generations will have to trust their own instincts and adapt to fast-changing technological landscapes rather than relying on established rules or advice from older generations. His remarks underscored a broader debate about how work, education and ambition will evolve alongside accelerating AI developments.

Addressing a packed audience, Altman said that the “biggest mistake young people make” is listening too closely to traditional wisdom on careers passed down by their elders. He acknowledged that even he did not claim to have a firm grasp on the pace of change, urging students to cultivate independent judgment and flexibility instead. “For a predictor of what the world is going to be like going forward, I don’t think you should trust me for having good intuition of the rate of change,” he said, emphasising that those entering the workforce must be prepared to navigate uncertainty and disruption.

Altman’s comments reflected a growing consensus among technology leaders that the job market and the nature of work are undergoing fundamental transformation as generative AI and automation systems become more capable. Traditional professions that once seemed secure are being rethought, while new categories of employment linked to AI development, oversight and ethical deployment are emerging. Altman’s view was echoed elsewhere at global forums where he and other AI leaders have stressed the need for adaptability, lifelong learning and creative problem-solving.

During the session at the institute, Altman clarified that while parents and mentors remain important for personal values, their career advice – rooted in past paradigms – may not offer reliable direction amid rapid technological shifts. He said young people must develop what he called “agency,” a capacity to shape their own paths, learn from failure and recalibrate as conditions evolve. “Young people always figure this out best,” he told the students, highlighting the creative energy he sees in younger cohorts.

Altman also acknowledged that the rise of artificial intelligence will entail changes in employment structures, with some roles becoming obsolete even as new opportunities are created. He stressed that preparing for the future will require calculated risk-taking and an openness to reinventing career plans rather than adhering to criteria like stability and predictability alone. His advice resonated with students grappling with how to position themselves in a world where AI tools are becoming deeply integrated into industries from healthcare to finance.

Reactions to Altman’s remarks have been varied. Some students and observers praised his emphasis on independent thought and adaptability, seeing it as realistic guidance for navigating disruption. Others questioned whether the message might undermine confidence in tried-and-tested pathways into professions such as engineering, medicine and law that have long been valued for stability and societal contribution. This tension illustrates the broader uncertainty about how best to prepare for a future shaped by rapid technological evolution.

Altman’s visit to the institute took place against the backdrop of major international discussions about the role of artificial intelligence in economic and social life. In New Delhi last month, global tech leaders and policymakers gathered for a major AI summit focused on collaboration, governance and responsible innovation. Altman’s remarks at IIT Delhi dovetail with themes emerging from those dialogues, where experts have called for societies to rethink education systems, regulatory frameworks and workforce strategies to accommodate profound shifts driven by AI capabilities.

His message to students also reflects a generational contrast in attitudes towards technology and opportunity. Younger people, he suggested, have an inherent advantage when it comes to understanding and experimenting with emerging tools and platforms. As AI becomes more pervasive, Altman said, those who can integrate machine intelligence with human creativity and judgement will be best positioned to thrive, even as older models of career guidance lose relevance.

Tata Group, Tata Consultancy Services and OpenAI unveiled a landmark strategic partnership that aims to redefine the landscape of artificial intelligence deployment across enterprise, infrastructure and workforce development. With a multi-year agreement signed at a major AI summit in New Delhi, the collaboration is centred on building out AI infrastructure in India, rolling out Enterprise ChatGPT to thousands of employees and co-creating industry-tailored AI solutions.

Under the pact, TCS’ HyperVault unit will lead the development of large-scale AI-ready data centres, starting with an initial capacity of about 100 megawatts of power and a roadmap to scale to 1 gigawatt. OpenAI is anticipated to become the first anchor customer for this infrastructure, supporting advanced AI computation and inference workloads within the country.

Central to the partnership is the deployment of Enterprise ChatGPT across Tata Group companies, designed to enhance productivity and accelerate innovation within one of India’s largest conglomerates. Thousands of employees are set to receive access to the enterprise version of the generative AI platform, enabling broader internal adoption of AI tools for knowledge work and decision support.

Beyond productivity tools, the alliance will explore the development of “agentic” AI solutions that combine OpenAI’s cutting-edge models with TCS’ industry knowledge and engineering capabilities. This approach aims to address complex sector-specific challenges across fields such as manufacturing, financial services and healthcare, rather than offering generic AI applications.

OpenAI’s CEO Sam Altman positioned the collaboration as part of a larger initiative to expand the company’s footprint and capabilities in emerging markets like India, where demand for AI services and local data processing is accelerating. He emphasised the need for robust infrastructure and local partnerships to scale AI responsibly and securely.

Tata Sons Chairman N. Chandrasekaran described the partnership as a cornerstone in the group’s wider AI strategy, underscoring its potential to strengthen both domestic capacity and global competitiveness. The agreement aligns with TCS’ ambition to become a leading AI-driven technology services provider on the world stage, building on its existing HyperVault platform and ongoing investments in state-of-the-art data centres.

Financial markets reacted positively to the announcement, with TCS shares rising after the news broke, reflecting investor confidence in the company’s expanded role in AI infrastructure build-out and its position as a strategic partner to global AI developers.

The infrastructure element of the partnership places a strong emphasis on scalability and sustainability. TCS’ HyperVault facilities are designed to support liquid-cooled, high-density data environments that can handle the demanding computational needs of generative AI models, while also integrating with major cloud regions for broader interoperability.

A social impact component is woven into the alliance through plans to collaborate with the OpenAI Foundation to deliver AI training programmes for youth and underserved communities, equipping individuals with skills to engage with emerging technologies responsibly. The initiative aims to develop a pipeline of talent capable of contributing to the wider AI ecosystem.

This partnership comes amid a broader surge in investment and strategic alignments between global AI firms and Indian technology leaders, as the country seeks to position itself as a competitive hub for innovation and data infrastructure. Industry observers note that similar efforts by other major tech players to localise AI capabilities reflect a global trend towards data residency, regulatory compliance and sovereign control over critical AI workloads.

Critics caution that the rapid expansion of AI infrastructure must be balanced with robust governance frameworks to address concerns around data security, ethical use and labour market disruption. Analysts argue that while the partnership promises substantial gains in efficiency and capability, clear policies and oversight mechanisms will be crucial to ensure equitable benefits across society.

By Nantoo Banerjee The global AI impact summit 2026 in Delhi, last week, couldn’t have come at a more appropriate time when the world continues to be somewhat skeptical about adoption of Artificial Intelligence (AI), its limitations and potential consequences. Thanks to the pioneering effort by firms such as Nvidia, Microsoft, Google, Amazon, Meta and […]

The article India Should Adopt ‘Trustworthy’ AI Tools To Stay Safe And Transparent appeared first on Latest India news, analysis and reports on Newspack by India Press Agency).

The gathering brought together senior executives from global technology firms, domestic start-ups, academic leaders and policymakers, signalling a concerted push by New Delhi to position the country as both a major market and a development hub for AI. Modi framed the technology as central to economic growth, public service delivery and national competitiveness, arguing that India’s digital public infrastructure and vast talent pool provide a foundation for leadership in the field.

Speaking at the event, Modi said AI must be “inclusive and responsible”, emphasising applications in healthcare, agriculture, education and governance. He pointed to platforms such as Aadhaar, the Unified Payments Interface and the CoWIN vaccination system as examples of large-scale digital architecture that could integrate advanced analytics and machine learning.

The summit’s optics were carefully managed to reflect global engagement. Executives from leading US technology companies shared stages with founders of domestic firms working on generative AI models, language tools and enterprise software. Representatives from multilateral bodies and research institutions discussed governance frameworks, data protection and the need for cross-border collaboration.

Yet the conference also exposed tensions between ambition and execution. Several sessions ran behind schedule, and some industry participants privately expressed concern over policy uncertainty, particularly around data localisation, cross-border data flows and regulatory oversight. Draft frameworks on AI ethics and safety remain under consultation, and companies are awaiting clarity on compliance requirements.

The event unfolded against a backdrop of intensifying global competition. The United States continues to dominate foundational AI research and chip design, while China has invested heavily in domestic models and semiconductor capacity. The European Union has advanced comprehensive legislation through its AI Act, seeking to set global standards on risk and accountability.

India’s approach has been more incremental. The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology has outlined plans to support compute infrastructure, encourage domestic large language models and expand skilling initiatives. Budget allocations for semiconductor manufacturing and design-linked incentives aim to reduce dependence on imports, although fabrication plants remain years away from full-scale production.

Industry analysts note that India’s strength lies in its software services sector and a large base of engineers. According to data from industry bodies, the country produces hundreds of thousands of engineering graduates annually, many of whom work in IT and business process outsourcing. Major domestic firms have announced internal AI integration plans, embedding generative tools into consulting, customer support and software development workflows.

At the same time, structural constraints are evident. High-performance computing resources are limited compared with those available in the US and China, and advanced chips are largely imported. Electricity reliability, data centre capacity and high-speed connectivity vary across regions. Venture capital funding for deep-tech ventures has fluctuated amid global market volatility.

Civil society groups and some academics used the summit to call for stronger safeguards. They warned that rapid deployment of AI systems without robust oversight could exacerbate misinformation, bias and privacy violations. India’s data protection law, enacted last year, sets out obligations for companies handling personal data, but implementing rules and enforcement mechanisms are still being developed.

Opposition figures have questioned whether headline events translate into durable policy outcomes. They argue that sustained investment in research universities, independent regulators and judicial capacity will be essential to manage the societal impact of AI. Some economists have also cautioned that automation could disrupt segments of the services workforce, requiring targeted reskilling programmes.

Global investors, however, continue to view India as a growth market. International cloud providers have expanded data centre footprints in cities such as Mumbai, Hyderabad and Chennai. Partnerships between domestic start-ups and multinational firms aim to build AI systems tailored to local languages and contexts, addressing a market of more than a billion people with diverse linguistic needs.

Modi’s messaging emphasised sovereignty alongside collaboration. He has repeatedly advocated for a global framework on AI governance that reflects the priorities of emerging economies, not solely those of advanced industrial nations. At the summit, he called for shared principles that balance innovation with ethical safeguards, while ensuring access for developing countries.

Diplomatically, the conference reinforced India’s profile as a convening power in technology policy, following its presidency of the G20 and engagement in forums on digital public goods. Whether that translates into tangible influence over global AI standards will depend on sustained coordination with like-minded partners and domestic regulatory coherence.

The twin agreements signal a coordinated push to deepen collaboration on artificial intelligence research, semiconductor supply chains and standards-setting at a time when global competition over emerging technologies is intensifying. Officials described the move as part of a broader effort to align trusted partners around open, secure and innovation-driven AI ecosystems.

The Pax Silica Initiative, framed as a platform for cooperation among governments, industry and research institutions, aims to promote responsible AI development anchored in democratic values and transparent governance. By endorsing the declaration, India has committed to work with other signatories on areas including AI safety frameworks, interoperability standards and resilient semiconductor networks. The initiative also seeks to reduce vulnerabilities in critical technology supply chains, particularly in advanced chips that underpin AI systems.

The Joint Statement on the India–U. S. AI Opportunity Partnership outlines specific areas of collaboration between New Delhi and Washington. According to officials familiar with the discussions, the partnership will prioritise joint research projects, exchanges between academic institutions and closer engagement between start-ups and venture capital ecosystems in both countries. It also envisages cooperation on workforce development, with a focus on skilling programmes to meet rising demand for AI engineers, data scientists and semiconductor specialists.

Senior representatives from both sides emphasised that the agreements build on an expanding technology agenda that has gathered pace over the past two years. The United States has identified India as a key partner in diversifying supply chains for critical technologies, while New Delhi has sought greater access to advanced know-how and investment to support its domestic manufacturing ambitions.

The semiconductor dimension is central to the Pax Silica framework. Global shortages during the pandemic exposed structural weaknesses in chip production networks, prompting governments to reassess their dependence on a limited number of manufacturing hubs. India has since launched incentive schemes to attract chipmakers and component suppliers, positioning itself as a complementary node in the global value chain. Closer coordination with U. S. firms and research laboratories is expected to support technology transfer and design capabilities.

Artificial intelligence governance is another pillar of the collaboration. Policymakers in New Delhi have been working on a regulatory architecture that balances innovation with safeguards against misuse. The partnership with the United States is expected to facilitate dialogue on standards, testing protocols and ethical guidelines. Both countries have expressed support for international cooperation to ensure AI systems are transparent, accountable and aligned with human rights principles.

Industry leaders present at the summit pointed to the commercial opportunities arising from deeper integration. India’s digital economy has expanded rapidly, driven by widespread smartphone adoption and a thriving start-up ecosystem. U. S. technology companies view the market as both a testing ground for scalable AI applications and a source of skilled talent. Joint ventures and research collaborations are likely to accelerate as policy barriers are addressed.

Analysts say the agreements also carry geopolitical significance. As rival powers invest heavily in AI and semiconductor capabilities, technology has become intertwined with national security and economic resilience. By formalising cooperation through the Pax Silica Declaration and the AI Opportunity Partnership, New Delhi and Washington are signalling intent to shape global norms rather than react to them.

The AI Impact Summit in New Delhi brought together policymakers, technologists and academics from multiple countries, underscoring the growing prominence of the city as a convening platform for debates on digital governance. Discussions ranged from generative AI applications in healthcare and education to concerns over misinformation and algorithmic bias. The signing of the declaration and joint statement provided a tangible outcome to those deliberations.

Officials indicated that working groups would be established to translate the commitments into concrete projects, with timelines and measurable targets to be announced in due course. Engagement with private sector stakeholders and research universities is expected to be formalised through memoranda of understanding and funding calls.

By T N Ashok At the center of Bharat Mandapam, the chiselled, lotus-shaped convention complex that has become the theatre for India’s global ambitions, Prime Minister Narendra Modi stood for a “family photo” that looked less like a diplomatic formality and more like a merger of Silicon Valley and the Westphalian order. To his left […]

The article India Positions Itself As The AI World’s Third Pole Under PM Modi’s Active Leadership appeared first on Latest India news, analysis and reports on Newspack by India Press Agency).