Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Paris on Wednesday for bilateral meetings and the VivaTech Summit [1, 2].
This visit underscores the strategic alignment between India and France, specifically focusing on artificial intelligence and technological innovation as global drivers for progress [2].
Modi traveled to the capital after attending the G7 summit in Evian-Les-Bains [2]. His itinerary includes a meeting with French President Emmanuel Macron and a community event with the Indian diaspora [2].
A central component of the visit is the VivaTech Summit 2026 [1]. India has been designated as the AI partner country for the event, signaling a deepened cooperation in emerging technologies [1, 2].
As part of his engagement with the private sector, Modi met with Saint-Gobain CEO Benoit Bazin [1]. These discussions are intended to strengthen the India-France partnership across industrial, and technological sectors [1, 2].
The Prime Minister said the partnership between India and France is vital for global progress [2].
“India has been designated as the AI partner country for the event”
India's role as the AI partner country at VivaTech 2026 suggests a shift toward high-tech diplomacy. By aligning with France on artificial intelligence and industrial leadership, India is positioning itself as a primary alternative for technological collaboration and investment outside of traditional U.S.-China corridors.
