Billionaire philanthropist Bill Gates has cancelled his planned keynote speech at a major artificial intelligence (AI) summit in India, following renewed attention over his past association with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.
In a statement, the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation said the decision was made “after careful consideration” to ensure the focus remains on the summit’s key priorities.
The AI Impact Summit, taking place in New Delhi, is expected to bring together global technology leaders and policymakers to discuss both the opportunities and risks of artificial intelligence. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and several tech CEOs are scheduled to address the event.
The foundation confirmed that the president of its Africa and India offices will speak at the summit in Gates’ place.
Controversy Over Epstein Files
The decision comes after new documents released by the US Justice Department included references to Gates in materials related to Epstein, who died by suicide in prison in 2019 while awaiting trial on sex trafficking charges.
Among the documents was a draft email in which Epstein made allegations about Gates’ personal life. Gates has strongly denied the claims.
“That email was never sent. The email is false,” Gates said in a recent interview. “Every minute I spent with him, I regret.”
A spokesperson for Gates said the documents only show Epstein’s frustration over not maintaining a close relationship with him and accused Epstein of attempting to defame him.
It is important to note that being mentioned in the Epstein files does not automatically imply wrongdoing.
Personal and Public Reactions
Gates’ former wife, Melinda French Gates, said the release of the documents brought back painful memories from their marriage. The couple divorced in 2021 after 27 years together.
She stated that any remaining questions about the matter should be answered by those directly involved.
Focus on AI and Development Work
Despite the controversy, the Gates Foundation said it remains fully committed to its health and development programs in India. The foundation has long worked in the country on issues such as public health, vaccination, sanitation, and poverty reduction.
The AI summit in New Delhi is expected to focus on how artificial intelligence can drive economic growth, improve public services, and address global challenges — while also discussing concerns about data privacy, job losses, and ethical risks.
While Gates’ absence may draw attention, organizers say the summit will proceed as planned, with global leaders continuing discussions on shaping the future of AI.
