NEW DELHI, Feb. 24 (ANI) — Stefan Priesner, the United Nations Resident Coordinator for India, has praised the country’s “impressive development” and its growing leadership on the global stage, highlighting its potential in sustainable tourism and its successful hosting of the AI Impact Summit 2026.
“I was extremely impressed by India’s leadership in inviting so many heads of state and high-level delegations from other countries. We were impressed by the convening power of India, the leadership of India, and also the messaging that we are talking about AI to generate well-being for all and happiness for all. This is very much along the lines of the thinking of the United Nations. We always think about those who are usually left out and try to never leave anybody behind,” Priesner told ANI.
Priesner also reflected on his longstanding connection with India, recalling his first visit in 1990.
“Since then, I’ve cherished this country. I’ve also observed the impressive development of India. Now, it is indeed my pleasure to be back as the head of the United Nations in India,” he said.
Outlining his priorities, Priesner emphasized strengthening the United Nations’ collaboration with the government and people of India across multiple sectors.
“My priorities are to build upon the excellent collaboration that the United Nations system has with the government and the people of India. These priorities span health and nutrition, economic development—including sustainable tourism—as well as environmental sustainability and climate change,” he said.
Highlighting India’s technological leadership, Priesner described the recent AI summit as an “impressive international conference” that demonstrated the country’s global convening power.
On a personal note, Priesner shared his admiration for India’s diverse geography, particularly its northern mountain regions.
“As an Austrian, I am a mountain person, so my favorite places in India are in the Himalayas. Certain places in Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and Ladakh are among my favorite places in the world,” he said, adding that he hopes to explore southern and eastern India in the future.
Priesner also underscored India’s vast tourism potential, noting that the country’s 42 World Heritage Sites offer significant opportunities to attract international visitors.
“From the United Nations, we will always argue that tourism development should be part of sustainable development. Environmental sustainability and social inclusion must remain central as tourism continues to grow,” he added.
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