Rishi Sunak Jokes About Delhi Traffic at AI Summit

Former British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak recently made headlines at the AI Impact Summit 2026 held in New Delhi. He playfully addressed the notorious traffic problems in the city, humorously admitting that his late arrival was due to congestion. His light-hearted remark that "AI can't yet fix Delhi's traffic" resonated with the audience, highlighting a common experience shared by many in the capital.

During his keynote speech, Sunak praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership for creating a platform to explore the transformative potential of artificial intelligence (AI). He emphasized the importance of this summit as a regular forum for discussions on AI technology, stating, "We do need a regular forum, where we can all meet and discuss this technology." He envisioned that such gatherings would facilitate impactful dialogues on how AI can benefit not only developed nations but also developing countries like India.

Sunak expressed optimism about AI’s ability to improve health and education across the globe. He pointed out that India, according to Stanford rankings, has emerged as an AI superpower, a status that should make the nation proud. This acknowledgment reflects India's growing role in the global tech landscape, where it is increasingly recognized for its capabilities in AI development.

The former Prime Minister also encouraged continued discussions on AI, stressing that the recent summit showcased the energy and commitment of Indian innovators. He noted that the collaborative spirit and leadership in India are unique and essential for harnessing AI’s full potential.

In a light-hearted exchange, Sunak jokingly mentioned that while England still holds the top position in ICC test rankings, it is somewhat disappointing that India has leapfrogged to become an AI superpower. His playful banter with UK Deputy Prime Minister David Lammy, who introduced him as both a great son of the UK and India, added a touch of humor to the event. Sunak humorously corrected Lammy, calling himself "son-in-law," showcasing a friendly rapport between the leaders.

Through this engaging event, Sunak highlighted not only the challenges of traffic in Delhi but also the significant advancements in AI that are shaping the future, reaffirming India's pivotal role in this global transformation.