Prime Minister Narendra Modi's France Visit: Key Benefits for India

Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited France from February 10 to 12, 2025, where he co-chaired the AI Action Summit with French President Emmanuel Macron. This visit aimed to strengthen India-France strategic relations, foster business partnerships, and enhance cooperation in emerging technologies like Artificial Intelligence (AI), defense, clean energy, and trade.

Key Highlights of PM Modi’s Visit

1. AI Action Summit Co-Chairing
PM Modi and President Macron co-chaired the AI Action Summit at the Grand Palace in Paris. The discussions focused on AI-driven innovation, ethical AI governance, cybersecurity, and global AI policies. This summit marked India's growing role in shaping AI advancements worldwide.

2. Strengthening Bilateral Ties
The two leaders reviewed progress on the "2047 Horizon Strategic Roadmap", which aims to enhance long-term cooperation in various sectors, including defense, energy, technology, and education.

3. Inauguration of Indian Consulate in Marseille
PM Modi and President Macron inaugurated India’s first consulate in Marseille, a move expected to strengthen cultural, economic, and diplomatic ties between the two nations.

4. Visit to the ITER Project
PM Modi also visited the International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor (ITER) project, where India is a key partner. This project focuses on developing nuclear fusion energy, which could revolutionize clean energy production.

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Major Benefits for India

1. AI & Tech Collaboration

• Enhanced AI cooperation will accelerate India's AI-powered industries in sectors like healthcare, manufacturing, and education.

• Cybersecurity and AI ethics partnerships will improve India's digital infrastructure.

• AI-based startups in India will gain global exposure and funding opportunities.

2. Increased Trade & Investment

• France is a major investor in India, and this visit paved the way for new trade agreements and business collaborations.

• Indian companies will gain easier access to the French and EU markets, boosting exports.

• The visit encouraged FDI (Foreign Direct Investment) inflows, creating more jobs in India.

3. Defense Cooperation

• Talks were held regarding the purchase of 26 Rafale fighter jets and three Scorpène submarines, strengthening India’s naval and air defense capabilities.

• Joint defense production opportunities were explored to boost "Make in India" initiatives.

4. Clean Energy & Sustainability

• India’s participation in ITER's nuclear fusion project will help develop sustainable and efficient energy sources.

• Agreements on solar and wind energy projects were discussed, supporting India's commitment to renewable energy growth.

5. Better Opportunities for Indian Expats & Students

• Discussions on easing visa rules will help more Indian professionals and students work and study in France.

• The opening of a new Indian consulate in Marseille will improve diplomatic support for Indian citizens in France.