External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, speaking at the 14th India-France CEO Forum alongside French Ministers Jean-Noel Barrot and Eric Lombard, emphasized the strengthening economic and strategic partnership between India and France. He highlighted key areas of collaboration, including artificial intelligence, defence, clean energy, infrastructure, and global supply chain resilience.
“Pleased to address the inaugural session of the 14th India – France CEO forum, alongside Ministers @jnbarrot and @Eric_R_Lombard of France,” Jaishankar said.
He stressed the shared commitment of India and France in shaping an “inclusive AI & innovation partnership” and the “potential of India – France and India – EU cooperation in diversifying production, making supply chains resilient, and de-risking the global economy.”
Addressing India’s advancements, Jaishankar spoke about “our [India’s] robust engagement and opportunities in defence manufacturing and aerospace.” He also outlined “new possibilities for collaboration in clean energy and green transitions,” and the transformative infrastructure development underway in India, including the prospects of furthering the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC).
Underlining the strength of India-France ties, he stated, “Underlined the trust, comfort, and ambition in the partnership. And the key role of our business in advancing this expansive agenda.”
PM Modi on Strengthening India-France Business Ties
Earlier, Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the CEO Forum in Paris, stressing the significance of the event in fostering economic collaboration and innovation.
“The India-France CEO Forum plays a key role in strengthening economic ties and fostering innovation. It is gladdening to see business leaders from both nations collaborate and create new opportunities across key sectors. This drives growth, investment, and ensures a better future for the coming generations,” PM Modi wrote in a post on X.
Speaking at the event, he described the forum as “more than just a business event—it’s a convergence of the brightest minds from India and France. You are embracing the mantra of innovation, collaboration, and elevation, driving progress with purpose.”
PM Modi highlighted the deep trust and shared values between India and France, stating, “India and France aren’t just connected by democratic values. Deep trust, innovation, and serving the people are the pillars of our friendship. Our relationship isn’t limited to just our two nations. Together, we’re providing solutions to global problems.”
AI Action Summit Co-Chaired by Modi and Macron
Alongside the forum, PM Modi co-chaired the AI Action Summit with French President Emmanuel Macron in Paris. The summit, which lasted a week, culminated in a High-Level Segment attended by global leaders, policymakers, and industry experts, focusing on AI-driven advancements and ethical innovation.