PM Modi Engages with French President Emmanuel Macron in Paris
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Synopsis
On February 11, Prime Minister Narendra Modi met with French President Emmanuel Macron in Paris ahead of the AI Summit. The two leaders aim to strengthen the India-France partnership and discuss critical topics related to Artificial Intelligence, innovation, and bilateral relations during Modi's three-day visit.
Key Takeaways
- PM Modi and President Macron embrace at a welcome dinner.
- Joint leadership of the AI Summit in Paris.
- Significant bilateral discussions focused on strengthening ties.
- Plans to visit the Mazargues War Cemetery to honor Indian soldiers.
- Inauguration of India's first Consulate in Marseille.
Paris, Feb 11 (NationPress) Prime Minister Narendra Modi was warmly embraced on Monday by French President Emmanuel Macron during a welcome dinner preceding their joint leadership of the AI Summit in Paris.
"Thrilled to reconnect with my friend, President Macron, in Paris," PM Modi shared on X on Monday.
At the dinner, the Prime Minister also engaged with US Vice President J.D. Vance, who is present in France for the AI Summit.
"PM @narendramodi interacts with President @EmmanuelMacron and USA @VP @JDVance in Paris," the Prime Minister's Office conveyed in a post on X.
Earlier that day, PM Modi arrived in Paris for the initial segment of his two-nation tour, which will subsequently lead him to the United States.
During his three-day stay in France, PM Modi will co-chair the AI Action Summit alongside Macron in Paris, engage in bilateral discussions, and address business leaders.
Upon his arrival in Paris, he was greeted with an impressive diaspora reception.
"An unforgettable welcome in Paris! The chilly weather did not stop the Indian community from expressing their warmth this evening. I'm thankful to our diaspora and proud of their achievements," he remarked.
PM Modi and Macron will also conduct discussions in both restricted and delegation formats and will address the India-France CEO's Forum.
In his departure statement, the Prime Minister noted that the bilateral aspect of his visit would present a chance to assess progress on the 2047 Horizon Roadmap for the India-France strategic partnership with my friend President Macron.
On Wednesday, the two leaders plan to visit the Mazargues War Cemetery, maintained by the Commonwealth War Graves Commission in Marseille, to honor the sacrifices of Indian soldiers during World War I.
They will also inaugurate the latest Consulate General of India in Marseille.
This marks PM Modi's sixth visit to France, according to officials.
The AI Action Summit is set to assemble global leaders and technology CEOs to deliberate on the future of Artificial Intelligence (AI), emphasizing innovation and ethical development.
As per the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), PM Modi's visit will also encompass significant bilateral engagements with President Macron.
"The Prime Minister will confer with President Macron, and together, they will embark on several pivotal initiatives aimed at further fortifying the India-France strategic partnership," stated the MEA.
Prior to his departure, PM Modi highlighted key aspects of his trip, which aims to enhance India’s global relationships and spotlight essential areas of international cooperation.
"At the invitation of President Macron, I will be visiting France from February 10 to 12. In Paris, I look forward to co-chairing the AI Action Summit, a major assembly of world leaders and global tech CEOs. Our talks will concentrate on promoting a collaborative approach to Artificial Intelligence, aimed at fostering innovation and ensuring that this transformative technology serves the public good in a comprehensive, secure, and trustworthy manner," he stated.
The Prime Minister also underscored the bilateral significance of the visit.
"We will also journey to the historic city of Marseille, where I will inaugurate India’s first Consulate in France. Furthermore, I eagerly anticipate visiting the International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor (ITER), a crucial project aimed at harnessing fusion energy for global benefit, where India plays a vital role within the consortium."
