Delhi: Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates will no longer deliver the keynote address at the India AI Impact Summit, according to a statement issued by the Gates Foundation on Thursday.
The foundation announced on social media that it would instead be represented by Ankur Vora, President of its Africa and India offices, who is scheduled to address participants later in the day. The organisation said the decision was made after “careful consideration” to ensure that attention remains centred on the summit’s core discussions around artificial intelligence and its developmental impact.
The development comes amid renewed attention surrounding documents released last month by the U.S. Department of Justice. The files include email exchanges involving staff of the Gates Foundation and the late financier Jeffrey Epstein, who had previously been convicted of sex offences.
The records suggest that Gates met Epstein on several occasions after the latter had served a prison sentence, with conversations reportedly focused on philanthropic initiatives. Gates has previously acknowledged meeting Epstein but has maintained that the interactions were limited to discussions related to charitable work. He has also described those meetings as a mistake.
In its statement, the Gates Foundation reiterated that it remains fully committed to its programmes in India, particularly in areas related to public health, agriculture, and development partnerships.
Founded in 2000 by Bill Gates and his former wife, the foundation has grown into one of the largest philanthropic institutions globally, supporting initiatives in global health, poverty alleviation, and innovation. Gates currently serves as chair and a member of its board.
The India AI Impact Summit brings together policymakers, technology leaders, and development experts to examine how artificial intelligence can be leveraged for inclusive growth. Organisers have not indicated any changes to the summit’s schedule beyond the keynote adjustment.
