This week marked the first session of the conference series “Encounters for Dialogue on Artificial Intelligence in 2026”, a joint initiative launched by the Fundación Consejo España – EE.UU. and IndesIA.

The inaugural conference, entitled “Perspectives on AI for 2026: Strategic Imperatives for Economic Progress and Social Well-being,” opened a space for reflection on the role of artificial intelligence in the current context. The discussion addressed its impact on industry, the economy, and society from a strategic and long-term perspective, analyzing how AI has evolved from a technological promise into a structural factor for competitiveness and security.

The session brought together leading experts from both sides of the Atlantic, offering a comparative view of the geopolitical, regulatory, and economic challenges and opportunities posed by artificial intelligence. The meeting was held in a small-group format, designed to foster meaningful exchange between speakers and participants, and conducted under the Chatham House Rule to ensure open and constructive dialogue.

This first session marks the beginning of a broader series that will continue to explore the major challenges AI presents in 2026, promoting informed debate and shared reflection among business leaders, institutional representatives, and technology experts.

The Fundación and IndesIA would like to thank Casa de América for hosting this first session, as well as Repsol and Airbus for their support and commitment to fostering strategic reflection on the future of artificial intelligence.

With this first session, the series launches an essential conversation on the role artificial intelligence will play in the emerging global economic and geopolitical landscape — a conversation that will continue in the coming months with new perspectives and expert voices.