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Serbia's President Praises India's AI Advancements

New Delhi: On Wednesday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted an article written by Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic, where he discusses artificial intelligence, India's expanding influence in the global AI landscape, and his admiration for the nation.

Modi took to the social media platform X to describe the article as insightful and warm towards India.

He stated, “A fine article by President Aleksandar Vučić of the Republic of Serbia, in which he talks about AI, of course, but at the same time highlights his fondness for India, India’s strides in AI and strong India-Serbia relations.”

In his post, Modi also shared a message from Vucic, who expressed his happiness about attending the AI Impact Summit 2026 in India.

Vucic remarked, “Glad to be in India and participate in the AI Impact Summit 2026. President of Serbia writes: AI Summit places India at the centre of the global discourse.”

The article, featured in The Indian Express, blends personal anecdotes with broader geopolitical and economic insights, emphasizing Serbia's desire to enhance its collaboration with India, especially in technology and innovation.

Vucic expressed his excitement upon arriving in Delhi for the AI Impact Summit, labeling it as ambitious and globally significant.

He noted, “As I arrive in Delhi to participate in the ambitious India AI Impact Summit, I feel an almost irrepressible sense of exhilaration. It is a feeling born of seeing a nation I have long admired thrive – and forge a path to success for its peers.”

He commended India's ability to maintain unity amidst its vast diversity, calling it a living example of pluralism.

Vucic shared how his admiration for India grew during his time in London in the 1990s, when he worked in a non-political role.

He reflected, “What truly cemented my affection for India was my first exposure to its people during an earlier chapter of my life, when I worked in London in the 1990s.”

He described his demanding work routine, which taught him lessons in humility and discipline.

Vucic noted, “I arrived at work each morning before dawn and left only after twelve hours on my feet, often ending the day with a mop to the floors. It was hard, honest work, and it served as an early apprenticeship in discipline and humility.”

He highlighted that among his colleagues, the hardest workers were Indians, including a Sikh manager from Punjab and the Sagar family.

Vucic remarked, “The only people who worked even harder were the Indians that I befriended: my manager, a Sikh gentleman from Punjab, and the Sagar family.”

He pointed out that during a time when many Europeans underestimated India, the work ethic he observed made him think otherwise.

Vucic also referenced discussions at the World Economic Forum in Davos, where some suggested India might remain in a 'second tier' among global AI powers, a view he disagreed with.

He emphasized that India's AI strategy focuses on practical applications rather than just high-profile models.

Vucic stated, “India’s approach to AI emphasises real-world deployment, ethical standards and inclusive innovation.”

He described the AI Impact Summit as a pivotal event that positions India at the forefront of global AI discussions.

Vucic noted, “The India AI Impact Summit, therefore, is more than a conference. It places India firmly at the centre of the global discourse on artificial intelligence.”

He explained that the summit aims to explore how AI can be responsibly and inclusively deployed to tackle real-world challenges.

According to him, the summit reflects PM Modi’s vision to democratize technology access.

Vucic remarked, “Animated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s ambition to democratise access to the benefits of new technology, it seeks to ensure that AI is not the preserve of a privileged few.”

He acknowledged the long-standing relationship between Serbia and India, rooted in cooperation and mutual respect.

Vucic mentioned the commemorative stamps released in 2018 to celebrate 70 years of diplomatic relations, featuring Swami Vivekananda and Nikola Tesla.

He expressed gratitude for India's support of Serbia's territorial integrity, particularly regarding Kosovo.

Vucic pointed out that while bilateral trade between Serbia and India has grown to around $400 million, there is still significant potential for expansion.

He noted, “While bilateral trade between Serbia and India – currently standing at around $400mn – has continued to grow, there remains vast untapped potential.”

Vucic advocated for improved connectivity, simplified trade processes, and sustained investment in innovation-driven partnerships, particularly in sectors like IT, pharmaceuticals, and renewable energy.

He stated, “Our shared ambition should be to broaden and intensify economic engagement through enhanced connectivity.”

Beyond trade, Vucic emphasized the potential for cultural exchanges, expressing interest in seeing Indian films shot in Serbia.

He concluded by reflecting on the lessons learned from his early work experiences, particularly the importance of grit and perseverance.

Vucic stated, “As I reflect on the extraordinary possibilities before us, I return to the lesson I first learned decades ago on a London shop floor: that grit, equanimity, and self-belief are often the strongest engines of progress.”

He praised PM Modi as a partner who embodies these qualities through action.

Vucic concluded by asserting that India is not merely waiting for its turn in the global order but is actively shaping the future.

He stated, “Those who still see India as a nation waiting its turn would do well to look again. India is not arriving at the future. It is helping to define it.”