Prime Minister Narendra Modi is embarking on a two days visit to France today. The Indian prime minister will be co-chairing the Artificial Intelligence (AI) Summit along with the French President Emmanuel Macron in Paris. This is the third such high level summit on Artificial Intelligence, the first was held in the UK in 2023 and the second one in the South Korea in 2024. PM Modi and President Macron, who share a strong personal rapport, have met three times in 2024, with Macron also serving as the Chief Guest at India’s Republic Day celebrations. That followed the two leaders meeting on the sidelines of the G7 summit in Italy, and then on the sidelines of the G20 summit in Rio de Janeiro.
Agenda on Defense.
The visit is expected to see major progress in Indo-French defense ties, with agreements and discussions spanning fighter jets, submarines, military co-production, and advanced defense technologies. A long-anticipated deal for 26 Rafale-M fighter jets for the Indian Navy is likely to be formally announced. Another key item on the agenda is the procurement of three additional Scorpene-class submarines for the Indian Navy. Built under the Project-75 (P75) program the deal, is in advanced negotiation stages. Discussions are expected on the possible co-design and development of a 110 KN aero engine for India’s upcoming Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA), a fifth-generation fighter jet. This collaboration could significantly boost India’s indigenous defense production capabilities. Both sides are likely to discuss the establishment of MRO (Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul) facilities in India. These facilities would provide support for Rafale jets and other French-origin aircraft, reducing dependency on foreign maintenance services and enhancing India’s aviation infrastructure.
Prime Minister Modi’s Multiple Engagement in France
The Prime Minister and President Macron will address the India-France CEOs Forum, and they will also hold discussions in both the restricted and delegation level talks format. This visit will also take the Prime Minister out of Paris. Together with President Macron, he will travel to Marseille in the evening of the 11th of February. That evening, President Macron will host a dinner in honour of the Prime Minister. The following morning, on the 12th of February, the two leaders will together visit the Mazargues War Cemetery. PM Modi and President Macron will also jointly inaugurate the new Consulate General of India in Marseille. PM Modi will also visit Cadarache, the site of the International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor (ITER ITER, a global fusion energy project. India has been actively participating in fusion research for over three decades under the Department of Atomic Energy (DAE), making significant technological strides.
The India-France strategic partnership, has evolved over the years from traditional areas like defence and nuclear energy into technology, innovation, and sustainability. In 2015, India and France jointly launched the International Solar Alliance on the sidelines of COP21 in Paris. They also co-chair the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI), a global body promoting climate-resilient infrastructure.
A key highlight of the visit will also be the launch of the India-France Innovation Year 2026 logo, symbolizing their commitment to fostering technological collaboration. From co-chairing the AI Summit to strengthening bilateral cooperation in innovation, sustainability, and energy, this visit is seen as important for India’s role as a key global player in shaping the future of technology and international development.