External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar met his French counterpart, Jean-Noël Barrot, in Paris to discuss a range of critical areas, including artificial intelligence, innovation, connectivity, and clean energy. The discussions also covered key regional and global developments, reinforcing the deep strategic convergence between India and France. Jaishankar highlighted the strength of the relationship, emphasizing that the shared vision between both nations reflects the comfort and trust within their Strategic Partnership.
Barrot echoed these sentiments, underlining the expanding technological collaboration between India and France. He described AI as the next frontier in the bilateral relationship, announcing plans for a dedicated Franco-Indian Year of Innovation in 2026. This initiative is expected to further cement cooperation in advanced technologies, research, and sustainable solutions, fostering deeper engagement between academia, industries, and policymakers from both countries.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to France further underscores the growing ties between the two nations. Upon his arrival in Paris, he was greeted with a warm reception from the Indian diaspora despite the cold weather. Expressing his gratitude, Modi acknowledged the enthusiasm of the Indian community, highlighting their unwavering support and connection to India’s global engagements.
During the visit, Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron will co-chair the AI Action Summit, a significant step in shaping the future of AI governance and collaboration between the two countries. The summit is expected to facilitate discussions on ethical AI deployment, cross-border research, and industrial applications of AI, positioning India and France as key players in the global AI landscape. Alongside the summit, the leaders will engage in bilateral talks focusing on economic partnerships, defense cooperation, and regional security.
A key milestone of the visit will be the inauguration of the newest Consulate General of India in Marseille, a move aimed at strengthening diplomatic and economic ties. The expansion of India’s consular presence in France reflects the growing people-to-people connections and the increasing trade and investment linkages between the two nations. With France being a crucial partner in India’s modernization journey—spanning defense, space, nuclear energy, and emerging technologies—this visit further reinforces the long-term commitment to mutual growth and innovation.
As India and France continue to align on global challenges and technological advancements, their partnership is poised to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of AI-driven economies, sustainable development, and strategic connectivity. The ongoing engagements and high-level dialogues reflect a shared vision for a more innovative and resilient global order, further solidifying the India-France Strategic Partnership in an era of rapid technological transformation.
