- By Priyanka Koul
- Thu, 19 Feb 2026 05:37 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
Bill Gates will not deliver keynote address at the India AI Impact Summit, Gates Foundation said on Thursday. The Foundation explained that the decision followed "careful consideration" and was made to "ensure the focus remains on the summit's key priorities," without providing additional details.
In a post on X, Gates Foundation said, "The Gates Foundation will be represented by Ankur Vora, President of Africa and India Offices, who will speak later today at the Summit".
The statement further clarified, "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."
Microsoft co-founder's withdrawal follows a controversy regarding his ties to the late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, after Gates' name was mentioned in new files released by the US Department of Justice in January. Gates has not been accused of any wrongdoing by any of Epstein's victims, and the inclusion of his name in the files does not suggest any criminal activity.
The announcement follows several days of speculation regarding Gates' attendance, as his name did not appear on the official list of key participants for the six-day summit, raising questions about his involvement.
A spokesperson for Gates has strongly denied the claims made in the files, describing them as "absolutely absurd and completely false." The billionaire has also expressed regret over his past association with Epstein, according to BBC.
The Gates Foundation further reaffirmed its commitment to its work in India, advancing shared health and development goals.
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The India AI Impact Summit 2026 is designed to foster collaborative strategies that tap into the transformative power of artificial intelligence. The event has gathered global leaders, policymakers, and tech experts to explore how AI can drive economic growth, enhance governance, and accelerate social development.