Tianjin: A humanoid robot stationed at the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) reception in Tianjin attracted attention when asked about its views on India, offering a polite but carefully worded response that underscored its programmed neutrality.
The female-modeled robot, capable of conversing in English, Russian, and Chinese, responded to a greeting by saying, “I am functioning to my optimum capacity today. Thank you for asking.” However, when asked about its thoughts on India, the AI-powered machine avoided direct commentary. “As an AI service robot, I do not give personal opinions about countries or politics,” it replied, while instead highlighting the purpose of the SCO Summit and the importance of dialogue among member nations.
The reception also marked a key moment of diplomacy, as Prime Minister Narendra Modi was welcomed by Chinese President Xi Jinping and First Lady Peng Liyuan. PM Modi later joined Russian President Vladimir Putin and other leaders for a group photograph, symbolizing unity within the bloc ahead of formal discussions.
According to India’s Ministry of External Affairs, Modi and Xi met earlier in the day for bilateral talks, where they emphasized the stabilizing role of their nations’ economies in global trade. The leaders also discussed enhancing people-to-people exchanges through direct flight services, visa facilitation, and the resumption of the Kailash Manasarovar Yatra.
The official proceedings of the SCO Summit are scheduled to begin on Monday, with leaders expected to deliberate on regional security, connectivity, and economic cooperation.