Prime Minister Narendra Modi was warmly welcomed by French President Emmanuel Macron at the Elysee Palace on Tuesday, where the two leaders engaged in discussions over a formal dinner.
Macron greeted PM Modi with a heartfelt hug upon his arrival, underscoring the strong personal rapport between them. The meeting reflects the deepening strategic partnership between India and France, with key topics such as defence cooperation, technological innovation, and artificial intelligence on the agenda.
Expressing his enthusiasm for the visit, PM Modi shared on X, “Delighted to meet my friend, President Macron in Paris.”
PM Modi’s visit also includes co-chairing the AI Action Summit alongside President Macron, where global leaders and industry executives will discuss AI-driven advancements for the public good. Another key highlight is the inauguration of India’s first consulate in Marseille, a milestone in diplomatic engagement between the two nations.
France extended a warm reception to the Indian leader, with Minister of the Armed Forces Sébastien Lecornu receiving him at the airport. The Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said on X, “PM @narendramodi arrived in Paris to a special welcome. Warmly received by Minister of the Armed Forces @SebLecornu of France at the airport.”
The visit is aligned with the ongoing India-France Horizon 2047 Roadmap, a long-term initiative aimed at deepening bilateral cooperation across multiple sectors. During his stay, PM Modi and President Macron will travel to Marseille to visit the International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor (ITER) project, a significant international collaboration in nuclear fusion research. PM Modi will also pay tribute to Indian soldiers at the Mazargues War Cemetery, honoring their sacrifices in the World Wars.
Among the dignitaries attending Macron’s dinner is U.S. Vice President JD Vance, further adding to the diplomatic significance of the event.
Following his engagements in France, PM Modi will embark on the next leg of his tour, heading to the United States at the invitation of President Donald Trump. His U.S. visit is expected to strengthen bilateral ties in technology, defence, and economic collaboration.
(Inputs from ANI)
