PM Modi’s Visit to France and US: Focus on AI, Trade, and Global Partnerships
New Delhi, February 10, 2025: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has embarked on a crucial diplomatic visit to France and the United States to strengthen India’s ties in technology, trade, defense, and energy. The visit, scheduled from February 10 to February 14, includes co-chairing the AI Action Summit in Paris with French President Emmanuel Macron, followed by discussions in Washington with US President Donald Trump.
AI Action Summit in France
PM Modi’s France visit begins on February 11, where he will participate in the AI Action Summit in Paris. This global event focuses on ensuring artificial intelligence (AI) is developed in a responsible and inclusive manner. Leaders such as US Vice President JD Vance and Chinese Vice Premier Zhang Guoqing, along with top industry executives like OpenAI CEO Sam Altman and Google CEO Sundar Pichai, will attend.
The summit will discuss AI governance and its impact on society. India’s role is significant, particularly as a voice for the Global South. A key highlight is the expected launch of an AI Foundation, aimed at international collaboration on AI research and regulations.
Beyond AI discussions, Modi and Macron will review the 2047 Horizon Roadmap, a long-term plan for India-France cooperation in multiple sectors. They will also visit Marseille, where India’s first consulate in the city will be inaugurated, further strengthening diplomatic and economic ties.
Another significant stop is the International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor (ITER) project, a global initiative for nuclear fusion research, where India is a major partner. Additionally, PM Modi will pay tribute to Indian soldiers who fought in World War I and II at the Mazargues War Cemetery.
Strengthening India-US Ties
After France, PM Modi will visit Washington for a meeting with US President Donald Trump. This is their first meeting since Trump’s re-election in January 2025. Key topics include:
- Technology and AI: Strengthening collaboration on emerging technologies.
- Defense and Security: Expanding military partnerships and defense procurement.
- Trade and Investment: Addressing trade imbalances and boosting economic ties.
- Energy: Advancing civil nuclear cooperation and exploring Small Modular Reactors (SMRs).
A sensitive issue on the agenda is the deportation of Indian migrants from the US. India has raised concerns over the treatment of deportees, particularly reports of them being shackled. The matter is expected to be discussed during Modi’s visit.
PM Modi will also meet business leaders and the Indian diaspora, reinforcing economic and cultural ties. His previous visits in 2017 and 2019 resulted in landmark agreements, and this visit aims to further elevate relations between India and the US.
A Strategic Diplomatic Move
Modi’s consecutive visits to France and the US reflect India’s balanced approach to global diplomacy. While strengthening ties with Western allies, India is positioning itself as a leader in AI, nuclear energy, and trade. The AI Action Summit provides India with an opportunity to shape global technology policies, ensuring fair benefits for all nations.
The meeting with Trump is equally crucial for Indo-US relations, especially amid geopolitical changes. With increasing focus on the Indo-Pacific region, defense and trade cooperation between India and the US remains a top priority.
Impact on Global Relations
PM Modi’s diplomatic engagements in France and the US could significantly shape India’s future on the world stage. His discussions in Paris will emphasize India’s leadership in AI and clean energy, while talks in Washington will determine the course of Indo-US relations under Trump’s second term.
With AI, trade, defense, and energy as key areas of discussion, this visit is expected to reinforce India’s position as a major global player. Whether through technology partnerships or diplomatic alliances, Modi’s visit marks an important step in India’s international strategy.
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