On Wednesday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi called for deeper international cooperation on critical minerals and renewable energy in the context of the rapidly evolving age of Artificial Intelligence (AI). Speaking about the transformative power of AI, Modi emphasized the need for a human-centric approach that ensures technological advancement does not compromise human dignity but instead empowers people globally.

He underlined that while the potential of AI is widely acknowledged, the real challenge lies in making sure that AI tools are used to uplift humanity rather than to control or dominate. According to him, the global community must work together to develop an international governance framework for AI that both encourages innovation and addresses serious concerns, including ethical use, misuse, and regulatory challenges.

In the age of AI, critical minerals—which are essential for producing AI technologies, batteries, and renewable energy infrastructure—have become strategically significant. Modi warned that no country should monopolize these resources or use them as a strategic weapon. Instead, he stressed the need for transparent and resilient supply chains and global partnerships to ensure equitable access and sustainable use of these minerals. The Prime Minister highlighted that such cooperation is not only crucial for maintaining geopolitical stability but also for accelerating the global digital and green transformation.

Modi also focused on the energy demands of AI, pointing out that its intensive energy consumption can only be sustainably met through the use of renewable energy sources. He reiterated India’s commitment to affordable, reliable, and sustainable energy, which he described as a national priority.

To meet these goals, India is investing heavily in:

• Solar energy,

• Small modular reactors,

• Smart grid infrastructure,

• Advanced energy storage systems, and

• Green energy corridors to connect renewable energy production areas with consumption centers.

He stated that these initiatives will help India not only meet its growing energy needs but also lead in the global transition to a cleaner and more sustainable future.

Furthermore, Modi positioned India as a responsible global player, ready to collaborate with other countries to address the dual challenges of technological advancement and climate sustainability. His vision calls for balancing economic growth with environmental and ethical responsibilities, especially at a time when emerging technologies like AI can deepen global inequalities if not managed wisely.

Overall, Prime Minister Modi’s message was one of inclusivity, ethical responsibility, and cooperation. He advocated for a collaborative global order where resources, technologies, and innovation are shared fairly to benefit all of humanity. In a world facing increasing fragmentation and competition over strategic resources, his call serves as a reminder that global challenges require collective action, especially in the realms of AI governance, mineral resource management, and energy sustainability.