Vipin Gaur attends as Guest of Honour; Sandeep Marwah calls for cultural collaboration and global harmony
India is set to host the prestigious World Public Summit 2026, a regional summit of the World Peoples Assembly, marking a significant step in strengthening global public dialogue and humanitarian cooperation. The summit continues the vision of the 2025 Assembly theme, “A New World of Conscious Unity.”
India’s selection as host reflects its civilizational ethos of “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam” (the world is one family) and its long-standing tradition of unity in diversity. As a rising global power and BRICS Chair in 2026, India is expected to play a key role in shaping discussions on global challenges including sustainable development, digital transformation, and humanitarian cooperation.
The summit aims to translate the idea of “conscious unity” into practical initiatives, particularly from Asia and the Global South, while strengthening people-to-people diplomacy through participation of civil society, academia, youth, and business leaders.
Discussions will focus on key themes such as cultural and spiritual heritage, value-based leadership, the role of media in global dialogue, and socially responsible economic partnerships.
The event will witness participation from eminent international figures including Andrey Belyaninov, Secretary General of the World Peoples Assembly; Adnan Badran, former Prime Minister of Jordan (online); Obijiofor Aginam of UNESCO MGIEP; Prof. Sanjay Kumar Pandey of JNU; and several other global experts and academicians.
Vipin Gaur, General Secretary of the Newspaper Association of India, attended the summit as the Guest of Honour. In his address, he highlighted the crucial role of media in fostering global unity.
“Media today is not just about reporting events; it is about shaping perspectives and building bridges between societies. Responsible journalism can play a transformative role in promoting peace, dialogue, and mutual understanding,” he said.
Emphasizing India’s global message, Gaur added, “The philosophy of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam is more relevant today than ever before. The world needs collective efforts from media, institutions, and society to build trust and unity beyond boundaries.”
Sandeep Marwah, President of the Asian Academy of Film and Television, in his opening remarks emphasized the importance of cultural diplomacy and creative industries in global peace-building.
“Art, cinema, and media are powerful tools that connect hearts beyond borders. Cultural exchange is the strongest foundation for lasting global relationships,” he said.
He further added, “India has always been a hub of creativity and values. Through such platforms, we can inspire a new generation to lead with vision, responsibility, and unity.”
The summit is being moderated by Alana Kochieva of the World Peoples Assembly, with sessions led by prominent figures including Sandeep Marwah and Valery Ruzin, Deputy Secretary General of the Assembly.
The outcomes of the India summit will contribute to the Second World Public Summit ‘A New World: Values That Unite’, scheduled for September 2026. The event is expected to position India at the center of global dialogue, promoting a future based on shared values, cooperation, and mutual respect.
