French President Emmanuel Macron welcomed Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi with a warm hug as he arrived in Paris for a dinner at the Élysée Palace. Macron personally received Modi upon his arrival, and the two leaders shared a candid moment before heading into discussions.
Highlighting the strong ties between India and France, PM Modi expressed his enthusiasm for the visit, posting on X, “Delighted to meet my friend, President Macron in Paris.” Their discussions are expected to focus on strategic cooperation, technological innovation, and artificial intelligence.
As part of his visit, PM Modi will co-chair the AI Action Summit alongside President Macron, engaging with global leaders and tech executives to explore AI-driven advancements for the public good. The visit also holds historical significance, as the two leaders will jointly inaugurate India’s first consulate in Marseille, strengthening diplomatic outreach.
The warm reception extended to PM Modi underscores the deepening India-France partnership. Upon his arrival, French Minister of the Armed Forces Sébastien Lecornu received him at the airport. Sharing the update, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal posted on X, “PM Narendra Modi arrived in Paris to a special welcome. Warmly received by Minister of the Armed Forces Sébastien Lecornu at the airport.”
The visit aligns with ongoing efforts to strengthen bilateral ties, particularly through the Horizon 2047 Roadmap, a long-term initiative focused on collaboration in key sectors. PM Modi and Macron will also visit the International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor (ITER) project in Marseille, a significant international collaboration in nuclear fusion research. Additionally, the Prime Minister will pay tribute to fallen Indian soldiers at the Mazargues War Cemetery, honouring their sacrifices in the World Wars.
Meanwhile, dignitaries continue to arrive at Macron’s dinner, with US Vice President JD Vance among the attendees.
Following his engagements in France, PM Modi will travel to the United States at the invitation of President Donald Trump, further strengthening India’s global partnerships in technology, defence, and economic growth.