Google CEO Sundar Pichai meets PM Modi, says looking forward to support India’s G20 presidency

Pichai, who met Modi after the ‘Google for India’ event in Delhi, also assured his support for making an open and connected internet that works for all.

India holds the presidency of the G20 from 1 December 2022 to 30 November 2023.

“Thank you for a great meeting today PM @narendramodi. Inspiring to see the rapid pace of technological change under your leadership. Look forward to continuing our strong partnership and supporting India’s G20 presidency to advance an open, connected internet that works for all,” Pichai tweeted after the meeting.

The Prime Minister retweeted Pichai’s post saying “Was a delight to meet you
@sundarpichai and discuss innovation, technology and more. It is important the world continues to work together to leverage tech for human prosperity and sustainable development.”

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Ahead of the event, Pichai had said in a blog post he would meet Modi to discuss how Google is supporting small businesses and startups while investing in cybersecurity and providing education and skills training. Pichai said he would also talk to the PM about the company’s priorities such as applying AI in sectors like agriculture and healthcare.
“Prime Minister Modi’s Digital India vision has helped to accelerate the progress we’re seeing across India, and I’m excited for India to share its experience with the world as it takes over the G20 presidency in 2023,” Pichai said in a blogpost.

During the event, Pichai also announced Google will invest heavily in Indian startups, adding that out of its $300 million for the startups, around one-fourth will be invested in entities that are led by women.

“Energized by all of the exciting things happening in India right now with AI, startups and the next generation of technologists,” Pichai tweeted after the event.