NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi late on Monday was welcomed by French President Emmanuel Macron with a hug at a dinner in Paris ahead of the AI Summit. “Delighted to meet my friend, President Macron in Paris,” Modi posted on X on Monday.
At the dinner, Modi also met US vice president JD Vance, who is in France for the AI Summit. “PM Narendra Modi interacts with President Emmanuel Macron and USA VP JD Vance in Paris,” the Prime Minister’s Office said on X.
Macron received Modi on his arrival, and they shared a moment before starting discussions. The visit focuses on strengthening India-France relations, with talks on strategic cooperation, technology, and artificial intelligence.
Modi will co-chair the AI Action Summit with Macron, engaging with global leaders and industry executives on AI advancements. The visit includes the inauguration of India’s first consulate in Marseille.
Earlier in the day, PM Modi arrived in Paris for the first part of his two-nation tour. During his three-day visit to France, he will hold talks with Macron, address business leaders, and co-chair the AI Action Summit.
He was welcomed by the Indian diaspora in Paris. “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,” he said.
Modi and Macron will hold discussions in both restricted and delegation formats and address the India-France CEO’s Forum.
In his departure statement, Modi said his visit will review the progress on the 2047 Horizon Roadmap for the India-France strategic partnership with “my friend” Macron.
This is PM Modi’s sixth visit to France.
