India and UK Enhance Cooperation on AI and Telecommunications

India and the United Kingdom have expressed a renewed commitment to enhancing bilateral cooperation in the realms of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and next-generation telecommunications. This agreement was reached during a bilateral meeting at the AI Summit in New Delhi, where Union Minister of State for Communications Pemmasani Chandra Sekhar met with Kanishka Narayan, UK Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for AI and Online Safety.

The discussions were held as part of the framework established by the India–UK 2030 Roadmap and the UK–India Technology Security Initiative. A press release from Union Minister Chandra Sekhar's office noted that both nations reviewed the progress made under the Department of Telecommunications–DCMS Memorandum of Understanding. They welcomed the recent operationalisation of the India–UK Connectivity and Innovation Centre, launched during the India Mobile Congress 2025.

During the meeting, Minister Chandra Sekhar highlighted the central role AI is expected to play in the development of telecommunications networks, notably through AI-native systems, Open Radio Access Networks (Open RAN), and the anticipated 6G technologies. The agenda included discussions on potential collaboration in areas such as autonomous network management, AI-driven cybersecurity, and innovative spectrum usage.

Furthermore, the two sides shared insights on strategies for combating telecom fraud through AI-based methodologies. They agreed to work together in global standard-setting bodies, including the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) and 3rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP), to ensure coordinated efforts in these emerging domains.

In addition, India showcased its National Quantum Mission, the rapid expansion of 5G networks, and initiatives aimed at improving connectivity in rural regions, all of which underline the country’s commitment to building robust digital public infrastructure.

The meeting concluded with a shared commitment to enhancing structured institutional collaboration focused on emerging technologies, indicating a significant step toward a future of strengthened ties between India and the UK in the digital sphere.