Former UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has declared that India and the UK are now recognized as global AI superpowers, citing the Stanford AI Index. Speaking at an AI-focused event hosted by the High Commission of India in London, Sunak emphasized shared innovation-friendly policies and called for deeper collaboration in AI governance and security.
On March 25, 2026, Rishi Sunak highlighted India’s rise in the global AI rankings, noting that India has recently overtaken the UK. He praised both nations for their pragmatic approach to AI governance, contrasting it with stricter regulatory models in the EU and US. Sunak also stressed the importance of cooperation between India and the UK in AI security and innovation.
India And UK As AI Superpowers
• Both countries rank among the top global AI powers according to the Stanford AI Index.
• India has overtaken the UK in recent rankings, reflecting rapid growth in AI research and adoption.
• Shared philosophy: pro-innovation governance, avoiding heavy regulation.
Collaboration Initiatives
• Launch of the UK-India Technology Security Initiative to strengthen AI cooperation.
• Proposed collaboration between AI Security Institutes in both countries.
• Focus on skills development, innovation, and global competitiveness.
Industry And Policy Impact
• India’s AI growth reflects its expanding tech ecosystem and talent pool.
• UK continues to lead in AI ethics, governance, and applied research.
• Joint efforts could shape global AI standards and security frameworks.
Key Highlights
• Rishi Sunak calls India and UK global AI superpowers
• India overtakes UK in Stanford AI Index rankings
• Shared philosophy favors innovation over heavy regulation
• UK-India Technology Security Initiative launched for deeper collaboration
• AI Security Institutes to work together on governance and safety
Sources: The Economic Times, Business Standard, WebIndia123, NewKerala