France's Macron concludes India visit: Focus on AI, innovation and bilateral cooperation
New Delhi: Emmanuel Macron concluded his three-day India visit on Thursday after meeting Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi, marking the end of high-level engagements focused on strengthening the India–France Strategic Partnership.
Macron was in India from February 17 to 19 to participate in the AI Impact Summit, where global leaders discussed emerging technologies, responsible AI and digital cooperation.
Focus on Horizon 2047 and strategic cooperation
During bilateral talks, Modi and Macron reviewed progress under the Horizon 2047 Roadmap, aimed at deepening cooperation across defence, critical minerals, advanced technologies, climate action, health, education and economic security.
The two leaders also exchanged views on regional and global developments, including collaboration in the Indo-Pacific region. Officials said discussions reflected the growing depth of the India–France Strategic Partnership.
Earlier this week, the leaders jointly inaugurated the India–France Year of Innovation in Mumbai, which will be observed throughout 2026 in both countries.
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AI, innovation and emerging technologies
According to the Ministry of External Affairs, the visit delivered more than 20 outcomes aligned with Horizon 2047 goals and provided a significant boost to cooperation in artificial intelligence, innovation and sustainable development.
Minister of State for External Affairs Kirti Vardhan Singh saw off the French President at Delhi airport on Thursday evening. In a post on X, Singh said the visit elevated bilateral ties to a “Special Global Strategic Partnership”, expanding collaboration across strategic and economic sectors.
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Strategic context
Macron’s visit follows Modi’s trip to France in February 2025 and underscores continued high-level political engagement between the two countries. Officials described the visit as reinforcing mutual trust and reaffirming the commitment of India and France to expand defence, technology and economic cooperation.
IANS