New Delhi:
In a significant display of diplomatic camaraderie and technological cooperation, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi was warmly welcomed by French President Emmanuel Macron at the Elysee Palace in Paris. This gesture marked the beginning of a crucial two-day AI Action Summit, a global gathering aimed at shaping the future of artificial intelligence.
The welcome dinner, hosted by President Macron, was a historic occasion as it also marked the first meeting between PM Modi and newly elected US Vice President JD Vance. This encounter underscores the summit’s importance as a platform for international leaders to converge and discuss the future of AI.
PM Modi’s sixth visit to France highlights the strong and enduring diplomatic ties between India and France. The AI Summit, co-chaired by PM Modi and President Macron, brings together an array of global leaders, tech giants, and scientists from over 100 countries to address the impact of AI on global security, economics, and governance.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Paris on Monday to co-chair the AI Action Summit with French President Emmanuel Macron. The summit is a pivotal event in the global AI calendar, following previous editions held in the UK and South Korea. Upon his arrival, PM Modi was greeted with a warm hug by President Macron at the Elysee Palace during a welcome dinner that set the tone for the summit.
At the dinner, PM Modi had the opportunity to meet US Vice President JD Vance, marking their first interaction since Vance took office. This meeting is significant as it reflects the growing international cooperation on AI, particularly between major world powers.
The AI Summit is designed to foster cooperation on the responsible and ethical use of AI technologies. With attendees including European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, and Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, the summit aims to accelerate AI progress in areas such as culture, health, and the environment. Tech giants like Google, Microsoft, and OpenAI are also participating, highlighting the industry’s commitment to ethical AI development.
Despite the cold weather, PM Modi received a grand welcome from the Indian diaspora in Paris, a testament to the strong bonds between the Indian community and their leader. “A memorable welcome in Paris The cold weather didn’t deter the Indian community from showing their affection this evening. Grateful to our diaspora and proud of them for their accomplishments,” PM Modi expressed.
The bilateral segment of PM Modi’s visit will focus on reviewing the progress on the 2047 Horizon Roadmap for the India-France strategic partnership. This roadmap is a comprehensive plan to enhance cooperation between the two nations across various sectors.
On Wednesday, PM Modi and President Macron will visit the Mazargues War Cemetery in Marseille to pay tribute to Indian soldiers who fought and died during World War I. This visit is a solemn acknowledgment of the historical ties and sacrifices shared between India and France. The two leaders will also jointly inaugurate the new Consulate General of India in Marseille, further strengthening diplomatic relations.
PM Modi’s France tour will also include a visit to Cadarache, the site of the International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor (ITER) project. This project, aimed at developing clean nuclear fusion energy, is a significant scientific collaboration in which India is a key partner.
