Swiss President Guy Parmelinbacks a governance framework for AI that does not rely on a single instrument and calls for societal norms that guide users. Excerpts from an interview with TOI:How should countries deal with AI regulation? Is there a need to have a new agency? Will a regulatory set up stifle innovation and development of AI but how do you deal with challenges such as deep fake?Over the past 200 years, mankind has established thousands of legal, technical and societal norms to “regulate” the development and use of engines in a vast number of different machines and vehicles, with different levels of harmonization, based on the specific context of use. Like engines, we think that also AI cannot be “regulated” by a single instrument, but we will need to develop a governance framework consisting of many instruments to cover different aspects of the development and use of AI. Switzerland is therefore actively contributing to the development of technical standards for AI, of binding and nonbinding legal instruments, like the recommendations of UNESCO or the Global Partnership on AI (GPAI) and the Council of Europe framework convention on AI, which has been elaborated among 55 countries from all around the world and is the first binding international treaty on AI. But we also need societal and cultural norms that guide us when using AI in our specific contexts.Switzerland is chairing the OSCE for the third time this year. In that capacity, what are you proposing to do to end the Russia-Ukraine conflict? Also, what do you make of India’s efforts to reach out to both sides for a ceasefire and return to dialogue and diplomacy?Under the first priority of its OSCE Chairpersonship (“Helsinki Principles – for lasting peace”), Switzerland is committed to a just peace in Ukraine, based on international law and the Helsinki Principles. In his capacity as OSCE Chairman-in-Office, Federal Councillor Ignazio Cassis visited Kyiv (Feb 2) and Moscow (Feb 5-6) together with the OSCE secretary general to offer dialogue and to make sure all relevant actors know what the OSCE could contribute in the context of a negotiated settlement. Ultimately, it is up to the States to decide whether to make use of it.Last one year has been turbulent for trade? How much cushion have trade deals such as those with India provided?Free trade agreements such as the Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement (TEPA) are an important tool, especially in challenging times for trade policy. They enable the Swiss export industry to tap into new markets and diversify. This strengthens Switzerland’s standing as a business location and boosts its ability to generate added value, create new jobs and preserve existing ones.Given unilateral tariff actions over the last 10 months, what is the way forward ad WTO’s powers are completely undermined and there is a rush of bilateral trade agreements around the globe?The WTO has long been under severe stress, but despite institutional paralysis, around 74% of global trade still takes place on MFN terms, underscoring the system’s continued relevance. It remains the only global institution that monitors members’ trade measures and offers a permanent forum for dialogue among 166 economies. In a context of rising tensions and challenges to established rules, Switzerland will continue to champion multilateralism and support WTO reform to preserve rules-based trade. WTO members broadly share this view: they have repeatedly signalled strong willingness to engage in meaningful reform, especially in view of the 14th WTO Ministerial Conference.The global order is changing, whether it is trade, arms reduction or countries threatening or attacking others. Where are things headed, is this a transition phase?The international order is undergoing a deep and far-reaching transformation. Democracy is under pressure worldwide. Tariffs are being raised, trade agreements dismantled, international rules ignored. It is not the rule of law that prevails, but the rule of might. Joint solutions are pushed aside by unilateral action. Great powers assert their interests, some wage wars to restore old empires. So, today, we are at a turning point. A turning point between progress and regression, between global cooperation and geopolitical rivalry. Between democratic renewal and authoritarian relapse. We have to actively shape this transformation. In this context, Switzerland is keen to diversify and deepen its relations with democratic partners like India that are proponents of international law and the rules-based international order and have considerable global influence and reach.Some believe that migration concerns are hyped up and there is a need get people to help at a time when European population is declining. But migrants come with their own challenges, especially problems with adjustment and backlash. How do you balance the two at a time when you are seeing a backlash against certain migrant groups?Switzerland recognizes that human mobility is a global phenomenon. People have always moved in response to economic, social, political, security and environmental challenges, in search of opportunities and/or safety. Fair, regular and safe migration can be a driver of sustainable development and of economic resilience, growth and prosperity for both countries of origin and destination. However, unsafe and irregular migration come with risks and challenges, even more so for young people and women. Switzerland – as a small but highly globalized country – has a strong interest in an international system of migration governance that addresses the risks associated with unsafe migration and forced displacement while leveraging the benefit of migration for the economy and the people. To address challenges but also build on opportunities, Switzerland’s foreign policy on migration is characterized by a partnership approach with countries of origin, transit and destination.

Google has unveiled Gemini 3.1 Pro, a powerful AI upgrade emphasizing enhanced reasoning for complex tasks. This new model excels at synthesizing data, generating animated SVGs from text, and tackling intricate technical problems. It significantly outperforms previous versions on key benchmarks, promising a leap in AI capabilities for both consumers and developers.

Google has launched Gemini 3.1 Pro, a significant update to its flagship AI model focused on sharper reasoning and better handling of complex, multi-step tasks. The model is rolling out today across the Gemini app, NotebookLM, and developer platforms including Google AI Studio, Vertex AI, and Antigravity.

Google Gemini 3.1 Pro features: What the upgrade actually brings

This is Google’s first-ever .1 increment—previous cycles used .5 as the mid-year refresh. The naming signals a focused intelligence upgrade rather than a broad feature expansion. At its core, 3.1 Pro brings the advanced reasoning engine introduced in Gemini 3 Deep Think last week to a much wider audience.Google describes the model as built for situations where “a simple answer isn’t enough.” In practice, that means handling things like synthesising large datasets into a single view, generating animated SVGs directly from a text prompt, or working through layered technical and scientific problems. The animated SVG capability is a neat example—outputs are built in pure code rather than pixels, meaning they stay crisp at any scale with tiny file sizes compared to traditional video.

Google Gemini 3.1 Pro vs OpenAI GPT and Anthropic Claude: What the numbers say

The headline figure is a 77.1% score on ARC-AGI-2, a benchmark that tests abstract reasoning on entirely new logic patterns. That’s more than double Gemini 3 Pro’s score—a meaningful jump. Elsewhere, 3.1 Pro scores 94.3% on GPQA Diamond (scientific knowledge), 80.6% on SWE-Bench Verified (agentic coding), and 85.9% on BrowseComp (agentic search). On LiveCodeBench Pro’s competitive coding Elo, it sits at 2887—notably ahead of rivals.

Google Gemini 3.1 Pro: How to access it right now

Gemini 3.1 Pro is launching in preview while Google validates performance, particularly around agentic workflows. Consumers can access it through the Gemini app and NotebookLM, with higher usage limits for Google AI Pro and Ultra subscribers. Developers get access via the Gemini API in Google AI Studio, Gemini CLI, Antigravity, Vertex AI, Gemini Enterprise, and Android Studio. General availability is expected soon.

Zimbabwe’s captain Sikandar Raza, center, with teammates leaves the ground after Sri Lanka’s inning during the T20 World Cup cricket match between Sri Lanka and Zimbabwe in Colombo, Sri Lanka, Thursday, Feb. 19, 2026. (AP Photo)

Captain Sikandar Raza said the strong group-stage run by the Zimbabwe at the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 has earned them respect, and he hopes the team can continue its run in the Super Eights against stronger opponents.Zimbabwe signalled their ability to challenge top teams by defeating Australia and Sri Lanka in Group B matches.“We keep our sights forward. If I keep our eyes on the present…I don’t think anyone gave us a chance. To win everyone’s hearts and respect, it is a good position to be in,” Raza said in the post-match presentation after his team’s win over SL.Zimbabwe now move into the Super Eights, where they will face reigning champions India, two-time champions West Indies cricket team, and 2024 finalists South Africa.But Raza said his side is not intimidated.Also read: Sikandar roars in Colombo: Zimbabwe stun Sri Lanka, fire warning shot at India
“We take one game at a time. We arrive on the 21st, and then train on the 22nd, and then it is show-time. Whatever happens, happens. If we can win two out of three games, who knows what can happen. Everyone loves an underdog story,” Raza added.Reflecting on the win over Sri Lanka, Raza said the hosts fell short of a defendable total.“When we lost the toss, all I said to the boys was if we are truly playing good cricket, why does the toss matter? I bowled, and said finger-spinners are not finding a lot of turn, so we can put them under pressure.“I came into the changing room and said they were 10 runs short (at the break). We have trained for every situation. We have the right personnel to send in at the right time. We have got all those roles clear and that is why you see the confidence in the changing room,” he said.For now, Raza said he wants to enjoy the team’s progress into the Super Eights.“We are unbeaten so far, but it is only the next game that comes into my head. Nice position to be in as a captain but I will try and enjoy at least tonight,” he said.

US President Donald Trump on Thursday said the United States will work to strengthen the United Nations, asserting that the global body needs financial support and that the “Board of Peace is going to look” over it to ensure it runs properly.Speaking at the inaugural meeting of his newly formed Board of Peace, Trump said the US would ensure the UN becomes stronger and more viable.“Someday, I won’t be here. The United Nations will be… is going to be much stronger. The Board of Peace is going to almost be looking over the United Nations and making sure it runs properly,” Trump said.“But we’re going to strengthen up the United Nations. We’re going to make sure its facilities are good. They need help, and they need help money-wise. We’re going to help them money wise, and we’re going to make sure the United Nations is viable,” he added.Trump also said Washington is closely coordinating with the world body. “And we are very closely working with the United Nations. In fact, I’m going to speak to the Secretary General in a little while. He’s a good man, and I’ve had a good relationship,” he said.The Board of Peace was initiated as part of Trump’s 20-point peace plan aimed at ending the conflict in Gaza. The initiative is widely seen as a parallel platform to the UN, and Trump has previously suggested it “might” replace the global organisation, saying the UN has never lived up to its potential.At the meeting, attended by leaders of nations that have joined the Board of Peace, Trump said the US would continue to work with the UN. “We’re going to bring them back. I think the United Nations has great potential, really great potential. It has not lived up to potential,” he said.He also noted that during his second term he had “settled” eight wars without consulting the UN. “I never spoke to the UN about even one of them when in fact I should have spoken about all of them with the global body,” he said.The United States remains the largest financial contributor to the United Nations, providing about 22 per cent of its regular budget and around 25 per cent of its peacekeeping budget. However, Washington reportedly owes approximately USD 4 billion in unpaid assessed contributions.Trump has previously been critical of the UN and withdrew the US from several UN agencies, including the World Health Organisation. Despite this, he said the organisation has potential and capable personnel.“I’ve said it for years, United Nations has tremendous potential,” Trump said, adding that although some people dismiss the UN, “No, it’s really very important, and I think it’s going to eventually live up to potential. That will be a big day.”Meanwhile, UN Secretary-General spokesperson Stephane Dujarric said earlier that he was not aware of any UN presence at the Board of Peace meeting in Washington. However, he said the UN continues to work toward implementing relevant Security Council resolutions related to Gaza and remains engaged with stakeholders influencing the humanitarian situation on the ground.

Global CEO and President Cristiano Amon

In a big affirmation of India’s electronics manufacturing and AI ambitions, American semiconductor giant Qualcomm is all set to sign a deal to contract-manufacture and source automotive module products from India that will be exported across the world, apart from being sold in the domestic market, Global CEO and President Cristiano Amon said. Qualcomm will perhaps be the first top-tier global chipmaker to export automotive module products from India, nearly four years after the govt had announced a $10 billion semiconductor incentive package to attract chip companies to make in India.

The move by Qualcomm comes on a day when Prime Minister Narendra Modi asked global tech giants, gathered in India for the AI Impact Summit, to use India as a base for design and development of cutting-edge tech as well as AI. “Design and Develop in India. Deliver to the World. Deliver to Humanity,” Modi said earlier in the day as he addressed global CEOs and heads of state, including Google CEO Sundar Pichai, OpenAI’s Sam Altman, French President Emmanuel Macron, and the UN Secretary General. In an interview to the Times Group, Amon said that with a rich legacy and a strong manpower, Qualcomm remains bullish on India as the company looks to grow its engagement in terms of module manufacturing as well as enhanced work on engineering and R&D for chips and AI. “We already have one of Qualcomm’s largest R&D hubs outside the US in India… Tomorrow, we will be making announcements about manufacturing some of the modules we provide to global companies in India, with new electronics manufacturing partners. We’re also expanding our engagement in advanced packaging, assembly, and testing as part of India’s growing semiconductor supply chain,” he said. Giving details about the expansion plans, he said that Qualcomm will be starting with the design of some of its component chips, especially in power management. “We will leverage investments in India for semiconductor manufacturing as capacity becomes available, and we will begin engagement for fabrication. Once that is done, these products will be part of the Qualcomm product line-up sold to customers worldwide.” He said the company will also manufacture “certain integrated modules”, especially for markets like automotive where higher levels of integration is required. “These modules will be manufactured in India and sold not only to the automotive industry in India but also globally.” Amon appreciated the efforts of the Indian govt to drive in AI infrastructure and research work through the AI Impact Summit. “It’s incredibly positive. I’m incredibly excited about it. I’ve always been a big believer that when we think about the next chapter of AI — especially as AI goes everywhere — our mission as a company is not only to enable AI in the data center, but also to see it evolve into the network and into all the different devices we use today – smartphones, PCs, cars, and the new AI-powered devices that connect to intelligent agents. I see that India has many of the elements required to make this successful. Not only does India have the ability to innovate domestically, but it also has the capability to provide technology to the rest of the world.” He said that Qualcomm agrees with the call of PM Modi in this regard. “I’m excited about the activity I see across the entire AI supply chain — from foundational models in India to applications, to leveraging the vibrant electronics manufacturing ecosystem, and now the beginnings of a semiconductor supply chain. As someone who has been engaged with India since the beginning of cellular, we’re incredibly excited and privileged to be part of this journey.” Qualcomm had recently announced its first 2-nanometer chip designed 100% by its India team. “That reflects the strength of the design ecosystem here.” He said the manufacturing engagement is part of Qualcomm’s global supply chain. Aked whether India can become a hub for some of these activities, he said, “That is the vision, and that’s where investments are being made. It’s starting right now, but these things take time.” Amon said that Qualcomm is encouraged by Modi’s approach. “This is not about one single initiative — it’s a multi-year journey. India is becoming part of the global semiconductor and electronics manufacturing ecosystem. It is a journey and it has taken multiple years. We’re happy to be partners from the beginning. That has been the history of our partnership with India.” Asked about the strengths that Qualcomm gets from the Indian market, he said it’s a combination of factors. “We’ve always believed in India’s talent — particularly in science, computer science, and electronics. We have a significant presence across Hyderabad, Bengaluru, Chennai, and other cities. India is our second-largest R&D hub globally. We’re proud of that… Our teams here do the same level of R&D as our teams in the United States.” He said that the company is now combining talent with supportive policies provided by the govt such as infrastructure development, electronics manufacturing, and the beginnings of a semiconductor supply chain. “That expansion is significant because it means India will have both design and manufacturing capabilities.” Emergence of a strong ecosystem in India will also lead to diversification of its supply chain. “The world needs diversified semiconductor manufacturing capacity. The efforts US is taking to build manufacturing are important. What India is doing is also very important. When you put this at scale, this will create a more vibrant industry globally and in the case for AI for everyone this will enable acceleration and diffusion of technology across industries.” Amon said that in automotive and industrial supply chain, diversity becomes critical. “In many cases, supply also needs to be closer to manufacturing locations. As India builds out its supply chain capabilities, that creates significant opportunities. That’s why we have always believed in India and have been one of the early partners in this journey. But it’s not only about the supply chain.” At the AI Impact Summit, the company announced a Qualcomm Venture Fund, committing $150 million to invest in Indian startups. “There’s no better way to demonstrate how strongly we believe in innovation coming out of India — particularly in enabling AI across companies… our investment in India spans decades. We were investing here long before it became a widely recognized trend.”

HYDERABAD: A three-month pregnant woman was hacked to death inside her house in Vanasthalipuram on Wednesday, allegedly by her ex-husband who was unhappy with her remarriage.The two software professionals, who had lived briefly in Canada, divorced in 2024.The woman had earlier filed a domestic violence complaint against the accused, following which a Look Out Circular (LOC) was issued against him.Also read: Divorce, passport seizure, remarriage: Canada-returned techie held grudge against pregnant ex-wife, gored her to deathVanasthalipuram police said Devarakonda Mahesh barged into the fourth-floor apartment of Sunitha (29) at Green City Colony around noon on Wednesday, went straight to the room where she was and locked it from inside. He was carrying a bag with two knives, a bottle of petrol and a chainsaw.“Mahesh got into a heated argument with her and, within minutes, attacked Sunitha with the knives. He stabbed her multiple times on various parts of her body, including her head,” said T Mahesh, inspector, Vanasthalipuram.

Police: Man held grudge against wife for remarrying

On hearing the victim’s screams, other family members rushed to her room and found Sunitha lying on the floor in a pool of blood. By then, the accused had locked himself in the washroom,” the inspector added. At the time of the attack, Sunitha’s mother-in-law was on the terrace drying clothes, while her brother-in-law was working in another room. Sunitha was working from home. The woman’s family members told police she and Mahesh got married in 2022 and moved to Canada. From the beginning, their relationship was strained. Eventually, in 2024, Sunitha filed for divorce and returned to India. In early 2025, she married another man and began living in Vanasthalipuram. “Last year, Mahesh returned to India after his mother passed away,” said B Anuradha, DCP, L B Nagar. She said he was intercepted by police at the airport as a LOC had been issued in his name in connection with a pending domestic violence case filed by Sunitha. His passport was seized. “Since he could not return to Canada because of the LOC, he was disappointed. He also held a grudge against Sunitha for remarrying and wanted to seek revenge,” the DCP added. Police said they had to break open the bathroom door to apprehend the accused. A case of murder has been filed against Mahesh.

In the midst of a high-octane T20 World Cup campaign, Indian cricket star Hardik Pandya has captured hearts off the field with a series of romantic birthday posts for girlfriend Mahieka Sharma that have sent social media into a frenzy. The 32-year-old all-rounder pulled out all the stops to celebrate Mahieka’s 25th birthday on Thursday (February 19), sharing intimate glimpses of their relationship that quickly went viral among fans and followers.

Hardik Pandya’s viral birthday post: A romantic infinity pool embrace

Pandya kicked off the birthday celebrations by sharing a breathtaking photo on his Instagram story, featuring the couple locked in a warm embrace while standing in an infinity pool overlooking the ocean. The cricketer kept his message simple yet deeply affectionate: “Happy birthday my princess,” followed by a string of heart and emoji symbols.

The romantic image captured the couple’s undeniable chemistry, with Hardik holding Mahieka close against a stunning backdrop of endless blue waters. Sri Lankan flags visible in the background hinted that the photo may have been taken during the Indian team’s recent stay in Colombo ahead of their blockbuster clash against Pakistan .

Mahieka, touched by the gesture, reshared the post on her own Instagram stories, adding a diamond emoji and an evil eye symbol, before posting another glimpse of her celebration dressed in black and posing in front of a heart-shaped birthday cake .

A video message from Hardik that melted hearts

Going beyond a single photograph, Pandya also treated his followers to a romantic video compilation featuring special moments with Mahieka. Set to the melodious backdrop of the classic love song “Saathiya,” the clip showed the couple enjoying quality time together in what appeared to be a lavish vacation setting .

Accompanying the video, Pandya penned an emotional note that left fans swooning. “Happy birthday my princess. Thank you for coming in this world 25 years ago. You are the most amazing person I know. I love you.,” he wrote.

Also READ: Hardik Pandya reacts to Mahieka Sharma’s heartfelt post ahead of Valentine’s Day

Who is Mahieka Sharma? The woman behind the headlines

Mahieka Sharma, who turned 25 on Thursday, is far more than just a cricketer’s girlfriend. She is a full-time model and actor who has made significant strides in the fashion and entertainment industries .

The Gujarat-born model has featured in several music videos, independent films, and high-profile ad campaigns for prestigious brands including Tanishq, Vivo, and Uniqlo. Her ramp presence is equally impressive, having walked for top designers such as Manish Malhotra, Tarun Tahiliani and Anita Dongre .

In 2024, Mahieka’s rising star was officially recognized when she received the ‘Model of the Year (New Age)’ award at the Indian Fashion Awards.

Beyond her glamorous profession, Mahieka brings academic depth to her profile. She pursued a bachelor’s degree in economics and finance from Pandit Deendayal Petroleum University in Gujarat before spending a year studying community psychology at the University of Maryland in the United States.

Mahieka and Hardik’s love story began generating public interest when they were spotted together at Mumbai airport in October 2025. The cricketer made their relationship Instagram official that same month, sharing a series of holiday pictures and describing her as his “11:11 wish.”

Since then, the couple has grown increasingly open about their bond. Following India’s T20I victory against South Africa last year, Pandya publicly credited Mahieka for her emotional support during his comeback phase. “A lot of credit goes to the loved ones who I had. Special mention to my partner as well. She’s been nothing but best to me since she has entered my life, and a lot of great things have happened since she has arrived,” he told the Board of Control for Cricket in India.

The couple has also been seen spending time with Pandya’s son Agastya, whom he shares with former wife Natasa Stankovic, signaling a blended family dynamic that has won appreciation from fans.

Also READ: 10 hot pics of Hardik Pandya’s new girlfriend Mahieka Sharma