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PM Modi’s recent visit to France was packed with high-profile engagements. This was his sixth visit to the country, and it focused on deepening bilateral relations in various sectors.
Strengthening India-France Relations
The visit followed a series of diplomatic exchanges between the two nations. French President Emmanuel Macron had earlier visited India as the Chief Guest for the 75th Republic Day in January 2024. Similarly, PM Modi was the guest of honor at the Bastille Day celebrations in July 2023.
During this visit, the two leaders co-chaired the AI Summit and jointly addressed the India-France CEOs Forum. The forum brought together key business leaders from industries such as aerospace, defense, innovation, energy, infrastructure, agro-processing, and consumer goods.
PM Modi encouraged French companies to explore opportunities in India, especially in defense, civil nuclear technology, insurance, and advanced manufacturing. Following the forum, both leaders traveled to Marseille in the French presidential aircraft, symbolizing their close diplomatic ties.
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Honoring History and Cultural Ties
PM Modi and President Macron paid tribute to Indian soldiers at the Mazargues War Cemetery. These brave soldiers had sacrificed their lives during the First and Second World Wars.
Modi highlighted Marseille’s historical significance in India’s freedom struggle. He recalled Veer Savarkar’s attempt to escape British custody in the city and expressed gratitude to the people of Marseille for supporting the Indian freedom movement.
In a significant diplomatic step, both leaders jointly inaugurated the new Indian Consulate General in Marseille. This rare gesture showcased the deep friendship between India and France.
Advancing Nuclear and AI Collaboration
PM Modi and President Macron visited the International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor (ITER) Facility in Cadarache. The experimental work at ITER is crucial for advancing fusion science and future energy solutions.
The two leaders also focused on nuclear cooperation, agreeing to work on Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) and Advanced Modular Reactors (AMRs). These technologies will play a vital role in addressing future energy demands.
PM Modi emphasized AI’s role in shaping the future, highlighting the need for safe, transparent, and inclusive AI development. He stressed the importance of AI regulations based on democratic values and human rights. The India-France roadmap on AI aims to ensure that AI systems are secure, reliable, and contribute to human development. Both countries committed to collaborating on AI capacity-building and aligning AI policies with international laws.
Strengthening Indo-Pacific Cooperation and Defense Partnerships
India and France agreed to enhance cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region. They signed a declaration of intent for triangular development, focusing on economic growth and stability in the region.
The leaders reviewed progress in defense collaborations, particularly the construction of Scorpene submarines in India. They also discussed integrating DRDO-developed Air Independent Propulsion (AIP) into future submarines.
PM Modi invited the French Army to explore the Pinaka rocket launcher, emphasizing its potential as another milestone in India-France defense ties. He also commended the commissioning of INS Vaghsheer, the final submarine of the P75 Scorpene-class project, in January 2025.
Future Commitments and Farewell Gesture
Both nations reaffirmed their commitment to digital innovation, AI, and defense cooperation. They also announced 2026 as the India-France Year of Innovation to strengthen technological partnerships.
Breaking protocol, President Macron personally saw off PM Modi at the airport, marking a warm farewell and reinforcing the strong bond between the two nations.