Indo-French Talks Expand Beyond Defence Into Artificial Intelligence

Prime Minister Narendra Modi personally welcomed French President Emmanuel Macron as he landed in Mumbai for a three-day visit to India. Posting on X, PM Modi wrote, “Welcome to India, my dear friend,” adding that the visit would strengthen cooperation and contribute to global progress.

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Macron responded warmly even before touchdown, sharing a photo from his flight and writing, “En route to India! Three days from Mumbai to New Delhi to take our strategic partnership even further.” The exchange reflected not just diplomacy, but a visible personal rapport between the two leaders.

Artificial Intelligence at the Heart of Indo-French Talks

Artificial intelligence will become the main topic of Indo-French discussions, which are expected to take place at the India AI Impact Summit 2026 that New Delhi will host. The two leaders have made multiple statements that explain how emerging technologies will drive economic development and international competitiveness during the next ten years.

Macron will be accompanied by business and digital leaders who will enable discussions to progress from policy matters into actual collaborative work.

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The future collaboration between France and India will establish its foundation through three elements, including joint innovation efforts, research partnerships, and responsible AI frameworks.

Rafale Deal Signals Deeper Defence Partnership

Defence serves as the main foundation that maintains the relationship between the two nations. India has approved the acquisition of 114 new Rafale jets from Dassault Aviation, which will see most planes produced in India. The Defence Acquisition Council approved the proposal, which has an estimated value of Rs. 3.60 lakh crores.

The current expansion of Rafale purchases shows increased trust between the two countries. The agreement supports India’s objective of achieving defence self-sufficiency while improving military ties with France.

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Why This Visit Matters Now

The two countries began their diplomatic relationship with a focus on military matters. The current partnership between the two countries includes artificial intelligence, trade, technological developments, and security initiatives.

The visit demonstrates a mature relationship between the two parties, which combines personal diplomacy with their economic interests.

India-France relations are undergoing structural change as global power dynamics shift. The Indo-French talks will produce specific results which will establish the framework for future bilateral relations between the two countries, especially in high-technology and strategic areas.

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