Estonian President Visits Swaminarayan Akshardham, Delhi | India-Estonia Ties
- New Delhi – February 17, 2026 – Estonian President Alar Karis concluded a visit to New Delhi today, marked by a significant cultural exchange at the Swaminarayan Akshardham...
- President Karis, accompanied by a delegation including Ambassador Marje Luup and officials from Estonia’s digital and AI sector – notably representatives from AI-Leap – was welcomed at the...
- The visit to Akshardham was framed as a reflection of shared values between Estonia and India, specifically a commitment to dialogue, innovation and intercultural understanding.
New Delhi – – Estonian President Alar Karis concluded a visit to New Delhi today, marked by a significant cultural exchange at the Swaminarayan Akshardham temple and participation in the India-AI Impact Summit. The visit underscores growing ties between Estonia and India, particularly in the realms of digital innovation and ethical technology development.
President Karis, accompanied by a delegation including Ambassador Marje Luup and officials from Estonia’s digital and AI sector – notably representatives from AI-Leap – was welcomed at the Akshardham temple by senior Swaminarayan leaders, Divyamrutidas Swami and Gnanmunidas Swami. The delegation engaged in traditional rituals, including the abhishek ceremony, offering prayers for peace and harmony, according to a statement released by the temple authorities.
The visit to Akshardham was framed as a reflection of shared values between Estonia and India, specifically a commitment to dialogue, innovation and intercultural understanding. The presence of officials from Estonia’s Digital and Cyber Diplomacy Department highlighted the importance placed on responsible technology and international cooperation in the digital sphere. The delegation also experienced the cultural boat ride, which provides an overview of India’s heritage and philosophical contributions.
Beyond the cultural exchange, President Karis’s trip centered on the India-AI Impact Summit. He arrived in New Delhi on , and was received at the airport by Raksha Khadse, Minister of State for Youth Affairs and Sports. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) stated that the visit would “further strengthen the longstanding India – Estonia ties.”
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, addressing the summit, emphasized the transformative potential of Artificial Intelligence across various sectors. He welcomed leaders, industry representatives, and experts from around the globe, framing the summit’s theme – “Sarvajana Hitaya, Sarvajana Sukhaya” (welfare for all, happiness for all) – as a shared commitment to human-centric progress through AI.
The India-AI Impact Summit aims to foster global discussion on innovation, collaboration, and the responsible use of Artificial Intelligence. PM Modi noted AI’s impact on healthcare, education, agriculture, and governance, expressing confidence that the summit’s outcomes would contribute to a “progressive, innovative and opportunity-driven” future.
During his visit to Akshardham, President Karis received a replica of the Swaminarayan Akshardham Mandir as a commemorative memento from Gnanmunidas Swami. He also presented a copy of “Transcendence: My Spiritual Experiences with Pramukh Swamiji,” authored by the late Indian President Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam.
His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj, the spiritual leader of the BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha, conveyed his gratitude to President Karis for his visit in a personal letter. Mahant Swami Maharaj offered prayers for the peace and prosperity of Estonia and its citizens, as well as for the President’s continued health and success. He expressed hope for the continued strengthening of friendly ties between the two nations through mutual understanding and cooperation.
President Karis, in turn, expressed his appreciation for the hospitality and the opportunity to experience India’s spiritual and cultural traditions. He stated, Thank you for the visit to the temple, and I do hope to come back. It has been very impressive. Let us hope for peace and very good relations between India and Estonia.
Estonia, a nation recognized for its digital advancements and e-governance initiatives, has been actively seeking to expand its partnerships in the technology sector. India, with its burgeoning tech industry and large talent pool, represents a key strategic partner. The visit comes as both countries explore opportunities for collaboration in areas such as cybersecurity, data governance, and the development of AI applications.
The deepening relationship between Estonia and India reflects a broader trend of increased engagement between European nations and the Indo-Pacific region. India’s growing economic and geopolitical influence, coupled with its commitment to multilateralism, makes it an increasingly important partner for countries seeking to diversify their strategic relationships.
The visit by President Karis, encompassing both cultural and technological dimensions, signals a commitment to a multifaceted partnership that extends beyond purely economic considerations. The emphasis on ethical development and responsible technology suggests a shared vision for a future where innovation serves the common good.