Paris, February 10, 2025 – Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Paris to co-chair the “Summit for Action on Artificial Intelligence” with French President Emmanuel Macron. The summit will be held the following two days, from February 10 to 11, at the Grand Palais and will promote international cooperation in regulating a.
Building India-France Strategic Partnership
Upon his arrival in Paris, the Prime Minister reflected on the growing closeness between India and France. He said that India and France have developed a strong strategic partnership focused on several sectors, namely defense, space, and energy.
This visit presents a major milestone as both countries embark on shaping a roadmap for cooperation for the next 25 years.
Themes of Artificial Intelligence
The Summit on Artificial Intelligence will touch on substantial themes including, among others, the engagement with artificial intelligence for the public good, the future of work, AI and culture, building trust in AI, and global governance.
It will also discuss technology development challenges such as misinformation and others pertaining to the ethics of AI.
The welfare of France will be ensured in confronting issues like the one already mentioned to encourage responsible AI development on a worldwide scale.
Bilateral Talks with President Macron
Besides co-chairing the summit, PM Modi is also scheduled to hold extensive bilateral discussions with President Macron. The two leaders will focus on substantive issues of bilateral cooperation in the areas of defence, space, and civil nuclear energy.
They will also explore new avenues of cooperation in emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence and digital public infrastructure.
Advancing Defense Collaboration
The cooperation in the defense remains a mainstay between India and France. Both the countries have pledged to consummate their respective endeavors for enhanced strategic autonomy through some joint endeavors.
Recent developments include discussions regarding France’s interest in procuring India’s domestically manufactured Pinaka multi-barrel rocket launcher system.
Should this deal culminate in a conclusion, it would represent the very first purchase of weapons from India by France, signaling yet another direction in defense collaboration.
Expanding Educational and Cultural Ties
The visit also attests to the common goal of strengthening people-to-people contacts. France announced its plans to welcome 30,000 Indian students by 2030 reflecting commitment to fostering educational exchanges.
Initiatives will, additionally, be discussed for enhancing the cultural collaboration and tourism between the two nations.
Looking Ahead
The dialogical pivot between Prime Minister Modi and President Macron at the closure speaks towards future attainments framed within the context of partnerships.
In strengthening each other’s comparative advantages in technology, innovation, and critical sectors, India and France expect to contribute towards the stability and prosperity of humanity in the long run.
This visit not only reinforces the longstanding friendship of two countries but also emphasizes joint endeavors in addressing global challenges through a responsible and ethical use of artificial intelligence.
