EAM Jaishankar Engages with French FM on AI and Innovation

In Paris on February 11, External Affairs Minister (EAM) S. Jaishankar engaged with his French counterpart Jean-Noel Barrot. The discussion centered around enhancing India-France bilateral relations with an emphasis on artificial intelligence (AI), innovation, connectivity, and clean energy.

Jaishankar took to social media platform X, expressing, "It was a delight to meet FM Jean-Noel Barrot in Paris this evening. We discussed our extensive cooperation with a spotlight on AI & innovation, connectivity, and clean energy. We also exchanged views on regional and global developments."

He further remarked, "Our strong convergence reflects the strength and comfort of our Strategic Partnership."

Barrot also shared insights on X, stating, "With India, AI is the new frontier of our strategic partnership. Together, in 2026, we will celebrate a Franco-Indian year of innovation!"

This meeting occurred during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's engagements at a welcome dinner prior to co-chairing the AI Summit in Paris.

PM Modi arrived in France earlier on Monday as part of the initial phase of his two-nation tour, which will subsequently take him to the United States.

Throughout his three-day visit, he will co-chair the AI Action Summit alongside French President Emmanuel Macron, partake in bilateral discussions, and address business leaders. Upon his arrival in Paris, he was warmly welcomed by the Indian diaspora.

Later that evening, PM Modi received a cordial welcome from President Macron during a dinner at the Elysee Palace, with both leaders exchanging warm embraces. "Thrilled to meet my friend, President Macron in Paris," PM Modi stated on X.

During the dinner, the Prime Minister also met with US Vice President J.D. Vance, who was present in France for the AI Summit.

Apart from discussions centered on AI, PM Modi and President Macron will engage in both restricted and delegation-level talks and address the India-France CEO's Forum.

In a statement issued upon departure, PM Modi noted that his visit would serve as a platform to evaluate progress on the 2047 Horizon Roadmap for India-France strategic relations with "my friend" President Macron.

On Wednesday, the two leaders will visit the Mazargues War Cemetery in Marseille, overseen by the Commonwealth War Graves Commission, to honor Indian soldiers who served in World War I. They will also inaugurate India's newest Consulate General in Marseille.

This marks PM Modi's sixth visit to France, highlighting the deepening of the strategic partnership between the two countries.

The AI Action Summit will gather global leaders and top technology CEOs to discuss the future of AI, focusing on innovation and ethical development.

As per the Ministry of External Affairs, PM Modi's visit will introduce several key initiatives aimed at further solidifying India-France ties.