Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent diplomatic tour to France and the United States marked a significant impact in strengthening India’s global alliances, with a pronounced focus on artificial intelligence (AI), economic reforms, and honoring historical ties. This comprehensive visit showcased India’s commitment to responsible AI development, economic collaboration, and the deepening of strategic partnerships.
During his two-day visit to France, Prime Minister Narendra Modi co-chaired the AI Action Summit alongside French President Emmanuel Macron. The summit convened global leaders, policymakers, and industry experts to deliberate on the ethical and inclusive advancement of AI. In his address, PM Modi emphasized the transformative potential of AI across sectors such as healthcare, education, and agriculture. He advocated for global collaboration to harness AI in achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), highlighting the importance of developing open-source AI systems to foster trust and transparency. One of the most defining moments during the summit was the announcement that India will host the next global AI summit, a testament to the country’s growing leadership in emerging technologies. Expressing gratitude to Macron for hosting the summit and inviting him to co-chair, PM Modi noted that AI is evolving at an “unprecedented scale and speed,” making collaboration even more crucial.
President Macron echoed these sentiments, emphasizing equitable access to AI technologies. He pitched Europe as a “third way”—a middle ground that regulates AI without smothering innovation or relying too much on the U.S. or China. “We want fair and open access to these innovations for the whole planet,” he said, calling for global AI rules. He also announced fresh investments across Europe to boost the region’s AI standing. “We’re in the race,” he declared.
On the sidelines of the summit, PM Modi engaged with several global leaders and industry executives. Notably, he met with U.S. Vice President JD Vance, discussing the diversification of India’s energy sourcing through investments in U.S. nuclear technology. This dialogue underscored the shared commitment to enhancing energy security and exploring clean energy solutions. In an informal yet heartwarming moment, PM Modi met with his family in Paris. Vance described Modi as “gracious and kind,” sharing how his children enjoyed the gifts given to them by the Indian Prime Minister. Such personal interactions reflect PM Modi’s ability to connect beyond formal diplomacy, strengthening relationships with leaders on a more personal level.
In another significant meeting, PM met with Google CEO Sundar Pichai in Paris at the AI Action Summit to discuss AI opportunities for India. Pichai emphasized collaboration on India’s digital transformation.
PM Modi’s visit to the French port city of Marseille was imbued with historical significance. He paid homage to the memory of freedom fighter Vinayak Damodar Savarkar. Reflecting on this episode, PM Modi remarked, “In India's quest for freedom, this city holds special significance. It was here that the great Veer Savarkar attempted a courageous escape.” Accompanied by President Macron, PM Modi also visited the Mazargues War Cemetery to honor Indian soldiers who sacrificed their lives during the World Wars.
Addressing the 14th India-France CEOs Forum in Paris, PM Modi invited French businesses to deepen their partnership with India. He highlighted the series of economic reforms introduced in the recent budget, emphasizing their potential to boost investments and enhance the ease of doing business.
PM Modi emphasized India’s progressive approach to foreign investment, highlighting 100% FDI in the insurance sector and private participation in civil nuclear energy with a focus on SMR and AMR technologies. He noted the rationalization of the customs rate structure and the introduction of a simplified income tax code to enhance ease of living and business.
“This is the right time to come to India,” Modi said, citing rapid growth in sectors like aviation, with 120 new airports planned. Inviting global participation in India's progress, he welcomed business leaders to join the country’s development journey.
At the CEO Forum, PM Modi and President Macron reaffirmed their strong bilateral ties, marking their sixth meeting in two years. Modi recalled Macron’s presence as the Chief Guest at India’s Republic Day celebrations last year, underscoring the growing India-France partnership.
PM Modi in a lighter yet impactful moment, humorously noted that a major issue with generative AI models, they can’t generate images where humans are writing with their left hand. He underscored the growing threat of AI-generated misinformation, stressing the need for global guidelines to regulate deepfake content.
Additionally, PM Modi acknowledged the fear of widespread job losses from AI, but asserted that, “history has shown that work does not disappear due to technology. New types of jobs are created.” He also said reskilling the workforce would be important to prepare them for the changes AI will bring about. By positioning India as a hub for AI innovation and responsible adoption, he reaffirmed the nation’s commitment to balancing technological advancements with inclusive growth and job security.
In the group photo at the AI Action Summit, PM Modi’s central position symbolizes India’s leadership in shaping AI governance, innovation, and ethical development. Surrounded by world leaders and industry experts, PM Modi’s presence at the forefront shows India’s pivotal role in driving international collaboration in emerging technologies.
Following his engagements in France, PM Modi is scheduled to travel to the United States at the invitation of President Donald Trump. The visit aims to deepen bilateral relations, with a focus on strategic sectors such as AI, defense, and trade. Discussions are expected to center on enhancing cooperation in technology, diversifying energy sourcing, and strengthening economic ties. These engagements reflect a multifaceted strategy aimed at leveraging technology and international cooperation to drive national development and contribute to global progress.
