Naspers Chairman Praises PM Modi’s Understanding of AI After Meeting in Johannesburg

By A Staff Reporter

Johannesburg, South Africa: Naspers Chairman Koos Bekker on Saturday praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s strong grasp of emerging technologies, particularly artificial intelligence, following their meeting in Johannesburg. Bekker, who leads one of the world’s major technology and investment groups, said he was struck by the Prime Minister’s detailed understanding of AI and its potential economic implications.

“What surprises me about Prime Minister Modi is how well informed he is,” Bekker said after the interaction. “We were talking about Artificial Intelligence and its potential impact on the economy and he's really well informed.”

Bekker noted that the discussion came at a crucial time, as global attention continues to shift toward the transformative role of AI across sectors. He mentioned that a “big AI conference” is scheduled for February, and that the upcoming event also formed part of their conversation with the Prime Minister.

The Naspers Chairman added that the meeting included discussions on the company’s investments in India, one of its most significant markets. “We also discussed with him the investments we make in India,” Bekker said, highlighting the country’s increasing prominence as a hub for technology, digital services and high-growth startups.