Cyprus–India event highlights the Role of Artificial Intelligence in Driving Innovation and Growth

PwC Cyprus and High Commission of India brought together business and academic leaders to explore AI collaboration
PwC Cyprus as part of the Cyprus–India AI Impact Pre-Summit, hosted the event “Driving Innovation and Growth”, on Wednesday 14 January, at the PwC Experience Center. Held under the auspices of the High Commission of India in Nicosia, the event gathered over 100 leaders from the public sector, business, and academia to explore how Artificial Intelligence (AI) can transform industries, stimulate growth, foster innovation and strengthen bilateral collaboration.
The summit commenced with opening remarks from Philippos Soseilos, CEO & Chairman of PwC Cyprus; Mr. Manish, High Commissioner of India in Nicosia; and Demetris Skourides, Chief Scientist for Research, Innovation and Technology of the Republic of Cyprus.
In his welcoming speech, Philippos Soseilos thanked High Commissioner Manish and his team for their support and noted, “At PwC Cyprus, we see AI as a transformative force that fosters sustainable growth and enhances human potential. Together, we can leverage AI’s potential to drive economic growth, enhance efficiency, and create new opportunities across Banking and Finance, Shipping and Maritime, Retail and Distribution and manufacturing sectors. PwC is dedicated to building an AI-driven future that upholds ethical principles and complies with regulatory standards.”
In his opening remarks, Manish, the High Commissioner of India to Cyprus, welcomed all stakeholders from the business and academic sectors and emphasized the transformative role of Artificial Intelligence in shaping global economies. He highlighted how India is leveraging AI to accelerate innovation, enhance productivity, and strengthen governance, while ensuring ethical deployment and inclusivity. He underscored India’s commitment to international collaboration, inviting Cypriot institutions, businesses, and startups to participate in joint AI ventures, knowledge exchanges, and innovation partnerships.
Demetris Skourides discussed and highlighted AI first strategy for the economic growth of Cyprus and stressed the need to leverage AI solutions for business productivity and efficiency.
A keynote presentation by Subhash Jangla, First Secretary at the High Commission of India, followed, offering insights into the upcoming India AI Impact Summit 2026 and India’s national strategy for AI-led development.
Two high-level panel discussions sparked engaging dialogue around the practical application and strategic potential of AI.
The first, titled “AI’s Role in Shaping Tomorrow’s Business Landscape”, featured senior executives from Island Oil, Bank of Cyprus, Alpha Bank Cyprus, and Eurobank Limited, who discussed about the opportunities and challenges that AI adoption can provide and it was moderated by Chrysilios Pelekanos, Partner at PwC Cyprus and President of the Cyprus–India Business Association.
The second panel, “Shaping Cyprus as a Global AI Hub through Academic Synergies,” explored how collaboration between academic institutions and industry can catalyse innovation. Speakers included faculty from the University of Nicosia Medical School, American University of Beirut – Mediterraneo, and Neapolis University Pafos, coordinated by Alakh Verma, Strategic Advisor on AI & Digital Transformation at PwC Cyprus.
In his closing remarks, Andreas Yiasemides, Clients & Markets Leader and CEO-elect of PwC Cyprus, highlighted the importance of the AI Global Impact Pre-Summit in connecting Cyprus and India and noted “The event paves the way for the Global Summit in New Delhi and stronger collaboration between the two regions. PwC is committed to supporting responsible AI adoption that fosters trust, transparency, and sustainable growth across sectors. This partnership aims to drive innovation for inclusive, lasting impact.”
The event concluded with a networking session, where participants from across sectors discussed potential partnerships and follow-up initiatives in the lead-up to the India AI Impact Summit 2026.