Estonian President Karis Visits India, Strengthening Ties Through Cultural Exchange and AI Collaboration
New Delhi – February 20, 2026 – 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.
Cultural Immersion at Swaminarayan Akshardham
President Karis, accompanied by Ambassador Marje Luup and a delegation including 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 [1].
Gnanmunidas Swami presented President Karis with a replica of the Swaminarayan Akshardham Mandir as a commemorative memento [1]. President Karis also received a personal letter from His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj, expressing appreciation for his visit and offering prayers for the peace and prosperity of Estonia [1].
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 [3]. President Karis presented the book, “Transcendence: My Spiritual Experiences with Pramukh Swamiji,” authored by President Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam [1].
Focus on Digital Innovation and AI
Beyond the cultural exchange, President Karis’s trip centered on the India-AI Impact Summit. The presence of officials from Estonia’s Digital and Cyber Diplomacy Department and AI-Leap highlighted the importance placed on responsible technology and international cooperation in the digital sphere [3].
The Ministry of External Affairs stated that the visit would “further strengthen the longstanding India – Estonia ties” [3]. President Karis arrived in New Delhi on February 17th and was received at the airport by Raksha Khadse, Minister of State for Youth Affairs and Sports [3].
Statements from President Karis
Expressing his appreciation for the warm hospitality and the opportunity to experience India’s spiritual and cultural traditions, President Karis stated, “Thank you for the visit to the temple, and I do hope to approach back. It has been very impressive. Let us hope for peace and very good relations between India and Estonia.” [1]