Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Paris on Monday for a two-day visit to co-chair the AI Action Summit with French President Emmanuel Macron. This visit underscores the enduring and deepening strategic partnership between India and France, emphasizing their mutual interests in a rapidly evolving global landscape.
Upon his arrival, PM Modi received a warm welcome from members of the Indian diaspora, demonstrating the strong connection between India and its expatriate community. Despite the cold weather, the Indian community showed their affection, a gesture for which PM Modi expressed his gratitude.
French President Emmanuel Macron welcomed PM Modi with a hug at a dinner held ahead of the AI Summit. Macron also shared a video of PM Modi's arrival at the Élysée Palace on X, welcoming him as "my friend". PM Modi reciprocated the sentiment, expressing his delight in meeting his friend President Macron in Paris.
In addition to co-chairing the AI Action Summit, PM Modi is scheduled to hold bilateral talks with President Macron to strengthen India-France relations. Discussions will cover trade, defence, and nuclear cooperation, building upon the existing close rapport between the two leaders. PM Modi will also address business leaders and participate in the India-France CEOs Forum.
The AI Action Summit aims to promote ethical, sustainable, and inclusive AI development. India's active engagement in the summit highlights its intent to position itself as a key player in the global AI landscape.
PM Modi's visit also includes a trip to Marseille, where he and President Macron will inaugurate a new Consulate General of India and pay tribute to Indian soldiers at the Mazargues War Cemetery. Following his engagements in France, PM Modi will travel to the US for a bilateral meeting with President Trump.
