The future of artificial intelligence shouldn't be a two-player game between superpowers, argues a seasoned diplomat who's watched technology reshape global politics from the inside. Golok Kumar Simili, until recently the tech chief at India's Ministry of External Affairs, believes the world needs to break free from the US-China binary that currently dominates AI discussions.

Key facts

  • Golok Kumar Simili served as tech chief at India's Ministry of External Affairs
  • He advocates for moving beyond US-China dominance in AI governance
  • Calls for inclusive global frameworks that include emerging economies

A Diplomat's Perspective on Tech Sovereignty

Simili brings a unique vantage point to the conversation about who gets to shape the rules of our AI-powered future. Having navigated technology policy at the highest levels of Indian diplomacy, he's seen how quickly technological advantage translates into geopolitical influence. Yet he worries that the current framing—pitting Washington against Beijing—leaves much of the world on the sidelines.

Why Inclusivity Matters

When only two voices dominate the conversation, entire regions risk having their concerns and perspectives overlooked. Simili suggests this isn't just about fairness—it's about effectiveness. AI systems trained primarily on Western or Chinese data may fail to understand cultural contexts from Mumbai to Nairobi to São Paulo. A truly global approach would incorporate diverse values and needs from the start.

The Path Forward

What would a more inclusive system look like? Simili doesn't spell out all the details, but his central message is clear: we need forums and frameworks where emerging economies have meaningful seats at the table. This isn't about rejecting American or Chinese contributions—it's about recognizing that technological leadership is no longer confined to a couple of capitals.