Prime Minister Narendra Modi has arrived in France for an official visit involving meetings with President Emmanuel Macron and U.S. President Donald Trump.
This diplomatic tour signals India's intent to strengthen strategic ties with European and North American powers while influencing the global governance of emerging technologies. The visit emphasizes India's role as a key partner in both security and technological innovation.
In Paris, Modi met with President Macron to discuss the establishment of a global AI foundation. Modi said he supports the Council for Sustainable AI and the initiatives led by France.
"I welcome the decision to set up the AI foundation at the Council for Sustainable AI," Modi said. "I congratulate France and my dear friend President Macron for their initiatives and assure our full support."
The itinerary continues in Nice, where the G7 summit is taking place. A bilateral meeting between Modi and President Donald Trump is scheduled for June 17, 2024 [1]. This encounter marks a significant diplomatic touchpoint between the two leaders.
Reports regarding the timing of the previous meeting between Modi and Trump are contradictory. One report suggests the leaders will meet 16 months after their last encounter [1]. Another report indicates the last meeting occurred in February 2025 in Washington [1].
The discussions in Nice are expected to focus on shared priorities and bilateral cooperation between India and the U.S. These talks occur against the backdrop of shifting global alliances and the need for coordinated responses to international challenges.
“I welcome the decision to set up the AI foundation at the Council for Sustainable AI.”
The convergence of these high-level meetings suggests India is positioning itself as a bridge between the West and the Global South, particularly in the regulation of artificial intelligence. By aligning with France on sustainable AI and maintaining a direct line to the U.S. presidency, India seeks to secure its interests in the global tech economy and strategic security frameworks.
