Paris/Washington: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has embarked on a high-profile diplomatic tour to France and the United States, focusing on artificial intelligence (AI) collaborations, defense agreements, and economic partnerships.
France Visit: AI Summit & Defense Deals
From February 10 to 12, 2025, PM Modi is in France at the invitation of President Emmanuel Macron to co-chair the Artificial Intelligence Action Summit in Paris. The summit brings together world leaders, tech executives, and policymakers to develop a framework for responsible and inclusive AI growth while addressing its impact on global security and the economy.
However, the summit has sparked debate, with experts criticizing a leaked draft declaration that they claim lacks strong AI safety commitments. Professor Stuart Russell, President of the International Association for Safe and Ethical AI, raised concerns over missing key security provisions.
In addition to AI discussions, India and France are set to unveil a collaborative roadmap for AI and sign crucial defense agreements, including the procurement of Rafale-M fighter jets and Scorpene-class submarines—a move set to strengthen India’s defense capabilities.
Upcoming US Visit: Strengthening Trade & Security
Following his France visit, PM Modi will head to the United States from February 12 to 14, 2025, for a crucial meeting with President Donald Trump. The visit will focus on enhancing trade, defense cooperation, and immigration policies. India is also eyeing increased energy imports from the U.S. and major defense deals involving combat vehicles and fighter jet engines.
Apart from high-level talks, Modi will engage with top business leaders and the Indian diaspora, reinforcing India’s deep strategic and economic ties with the U.S.
With AI innovation, security partnerships, and trade agreements on the agenda, Modi’s diplomatic tour is set to shape the future of India’s global alliances.
