PM Narendra Modi’s 2025 Visit to France

Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to France in February 2025 marked a significant step in strengthening bilateral relations between India and France. The visit was packed with strategic discussions, high-level diplomatic engagements, and agreements aimed at boosting cooperation in artificial intelligence, nuclear energy, and trade. Modi’s trip also emphasized historical ties and people-to-people connections, highlighting India’s growing global influence.

What Were the Major Highlights of PM Modi’s France Visit?

AI Action Summit and Technological Cooperation

A key highlight of the visit was PM Modi co-chairing the third International Summit on Artificial Intelligence (AI Action Summit) with French President Emmanuel Macron. The summit focused on responsible AI development, ensuring equitable access to AI technologies, and promoting transparency through open-source AI systems. The discussions emphasized AI’s potential in innovation, economic growth, and bridging the digital divide. Leaders from various countries participated, highlighting the importance of global collaboration in AI.

Inauguration of Indian Consulate in Marseille

PM Modi and President Macron jointly inaugurated the Indian Consulate General in Marseille, a move symbolizing India’s strengthening diplomatic footprint in France. This marked a historic moment as it was the first time a French President participated in the inauguration of a foreign consulate. The new consulate is expected to improve consular services, enhance trade relations, and boost cultural and educational exchanges between the two nations.

Tribute to Indian Soldiers in World Wars

During his visit, PM Modi paid homage at the Mazargues War Cemetery in Marseille, where Indian soldiers who fought in the World Wars are buried. This act of remembrance underscored the historical ties between India and France and highlighted the sacrifices made by Indian soldiers in global conflicts. President Macron also participated in the tribute, further strengthening the shared history between the two countries.

How Did the Visit Advance India-France Nuclear and Energy Cooperation?

Partnership in Nuclear Fusion Technology

PM Modi visited the International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor (ITER) facility in Cadarache, where India is a key partner. ITER is one of the world’s most ambitious nuclear fusion research projects, aimed at developing clean and sustainable energy. The visit reinforced India’s commitment to advanced scientific collaboration and highlighted France’s role in helping India expand its energy capabilities.

Declaration on Small Modular Reactors

A major outcome of the visit was the signing of a declaration between India and France to establish a partnership on advanced and small modular nuclear reactors. The agreement aims to enhance cooperation in nuclear energy, particularly in developing innovative solutions for sustainable power generation. This marks a crucial step in India’s efforts to expand its nuclear energy capacity while maintaining strong international partnerships.

What Was the Economic and Business Impact of the Visit?

India-France CEOs Forum

PM Modi and President Macron participated in the 14th India-France CEOs Forum, engaging with business leaders from key sectors such as aerospace, defense, innovation, energy, and infrastructure. Discussions focused on strengthening economic ties, fostering investment opportunities, and exploring new collaborations in defense and civil nuclear energy. The forum served as a platform for major French and Indian companies to explore long-term partnerships.

PM Modi’s visit to France in 2025 reinforced India’s deepening ties with France across multiple sectors, from AI and nuclear energy to business and trade. The visit not only strengthened strategic cooperation but also paved the way for long-term collaborations that will shape the future of India-France relations.

Summary of the news