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Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has wrapped up his visit to France and departed for the United States. His departure was marked by a heartfelt farewell from French President Emmanuel Macron, who personally came to the airport, embraced Modi, and bid him farewell. Reflecting on his visit, PM Modi took to social media, writing, "Thank you, France! A fruitful visit has ended, where I participated in many programs ranging from AI, commerce, energy, and cultural relations. Thanks to President Emmanuel Macron and the people of France."
This visit was highly significant for Indo-French relations, with both leaders reaffirming their deep friendship and strategic partnership.
Strengthening Ties : Modi and Macron’s Engagements
PM Modi’s visit to France was packed with high-level engagements and discussions. His first day in Paris included a private dinner with President Macron, where the two leaders exchanged views on global and bilateral issues in a warm and friendly atmosphere.
The second day saw their collaboration extend to the AI Action Summit, a crucial event co-hosted by India and France. This summit served as a platform for discussing artificial intelligence (AI) policies, innovation, and ethical challenges, further strengthening cooperation between the two nations.
Modi Meets U.S. Vice President JD Vance in Paris
During the AI Action Summit in Paris, PM Modi held a key meeting with U.S. Vice President JD Vance, his wife Usha Vance, and their children, Ivan and Vivek. Modi later shared pictures of the meeting on social media, writing,
"Had a wonderful meeting with U.S. Vice President JD Vance and his family. We had a very good conversation on various topics."
A video released by the Prime Minister's Office (PMO) showed Modi and Vance engaged in bilateral talks, with Usha Vance attentively observing their discussions.
PM Modi Outlines India’s AI Vision
At the AI Action Summit, PM Modi presented India’s vision for artificial intelligence, emphasizing India's commitment to ensuring that AI benefits all of humanity. He reiterated India’s willingness to share its expertise and experiences in AI development.
Key takeaways from his address included:
- The need for global AI standards to regulate AI-related challenges.
- India’s ability to develop low-cost digital public infrastructure for over 1.4 billion people.
- A call for responsible AI usage to prevent misuse and ethical concerns.
China Criticized at the AI Summit
The AI Summit also witnessed strong remarks from the U.S. against China.
- The U.S. warned European allies to be cautious of China’s AI ambitions.
- Vice President JD Vance opposed excessive AI regulations, arguing that overregulation could stifle innovation.
- America positioned itself as a leader in AI while cautioning against state-controlled AI models, particularly in China.
These remarks highlighted the ongoing geopolitical competition in AI technology and the U.S.’s efforts to shape global AI policies.
PM Modi’s Meeting with Google CEO Sundar Pichai
Another crucial engagement during Modi’s visit was his meeting with Google CEO Sundar Pichai. Modi invited Google to expand its AI investments in India, emphasizing the country’s growing AI sector.
In a social media post after the meeting, PM Modi wrote,
"It was a pleasure to meet you, Sundar Pichai. India is making remarkable progress in AI and using it for public welfare. We urge the world to come and invest in our country and bet on our youth power!"
India’s focus on digital transformation and AI-led innovation was a key theme in Modi’s discussions with global tech leaders.
Inauguration of India’s New Consulate in Massey, France
In a significant diplomatic move, PM Modi and President Macron jointly inaugurated India’s new consulate in Massey, France.
- The consulate aims to serve the Indian diaspora in southern France, reducing their dependency on Paris for consular services.
- This move aligns with India's expanding diplomatic outreach and commitment to supporting its overseas citizens.
- The establishment of this consulate was first announced during Modi’s 2023 visit to France.
The new consulate is expected to enhance India-France people-to-people ties and facilitate smoother services for Indian nationals residing in the region.
The Special Bond Between Modi and Macron
Throughout the visit, the strong camaraderie between PM Modi and President Macron was on full display.
- Macron’s personal farewell at the airport, where he hugged Modi, symbolized the depth of their friendship.
- The two leaders flew together from Paris to Marseille, highlighting the trust and warmth in their relationship.
- Their multiple interactions over the visit reinforced India-France ties, not just at the strategic and economic level but also on a personal level.
Boosting Trade and Investment Relations
PM Modi and President Macron also committed to strengthening economic and trade relations between India and France.
- They discussed enhancing bilateral investments and expanding economic cooperation.
- Both leaders expressed their commitment to deepening engagement in the Indo-Pacific region and collaborating on global issues.
- They also celebrated the success of the International Class Scheme, which helps Indian students learn French and integrate into French universities.
This commitment reflects the growing strategic and economic importance of Indo-French relations in the global landscape.
