In a cordial exchange ahead of the AI Action Summit in Paris, Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended warm congratulations to US Vice President JD Vance on the Republican Party’s triumph in the United States. Modi’s greeting, “Congratulations! A great, great victory,” came as the two leaders shook hands with French President Emmanuel Macron standing alongside.
Prime Minister Modi, who arrived in France on Monday for a three-day visit, is in the city to attend the AI Action Summit. The summit, which is set to bring together global leaders to discuss advancements in artificial intelligence, will be co-chaired by PM Modi and President Macron. The visit also provides an opportunity for the leaders to engage in significant bilateral discussions, covering various areas of cooperation, including technology, trade, and international security.
On the evening of his arrival, President Macron hosted a dinner in PM Modi’s honour, marking a warm reception as the two leaders continue to foster their nations’ strong relationship. The French president greeted PM Modi with a heartfelt hug, showcasing the close ties between India and France.
The dinner also saw the significant presence of JD Vance, the US Vice President, who is in Paris for the summit. This meeting was their first since the return of Donald Trump to power in the United States, and both leaders appeared eager to discuss the political shifts that have occurred since Trump’s rise.
While discussing the outcomes of the Republican Party’s victory, PM Modi conveyed his congratulations with a smile, recognising the political significance of the moment. The handshake between Modi and Vance was a symbol of the evolving political and diplomatic ties between India and the United States.
Vance, who represents the Republican Party, is known for his staunch support of policies that prioritise American interests, including those relating to the economy, security, and international relations. His meeting with PM Modi signifies the growing importance of cross-party dialogues, as political landscapes shift in both countries.
As the two leaders exchanged pleasantries and congratulatory words, Macron, standing as a bystander, looked on with interest. The French president’s presence highlighted France’s central role in fostering global diplomatic dialogues, particularly in areas related to emerging technologies like AI.
The AI Action Summit, which has attracted world leaders, scientists, and industry experts, is expected to focus on the future of artificial intelligence and its potential to reshape industries, economies, and societies. Discussions will also address the ethical implications of AI and how nations can work together to regulate and promote the responsible use of AI technologies.
PM Modi’s visit to France underscores the deepening ties between India and France, two countries that have been strong allies in global affairs. Modi’s participation in the summit, alongside President Macron, serves as a testament to the growing role both nations are playing in shaping the future of technology and international diplomacy.
In his remarks, Modi emphasised the importance of collaboration in AI, noting that India’s tech sector is rapidly expanding and has the potential to play a key role in the global AI ecosystem. He also reiterated his government’s commitment to harnessing the power of AI for the betterment of society, with a focus on improving lives through innovation and inclusivity.
The dinner, which brought together political and diplomatic elites from both nations, also provided an opportunity for informal discussions between Modi, Macron, and Vance. The light-hearted moments at the event were contrasted with the weighty topics to be tackled in the coming days at the summit.
With the AI Action Summit set to begin, all eyes are now on the leaders as they prepare to navigate the complexities of global technology governance and discuss the role of AI in tackling some of the world’s most pressing challenges, including climate change, healthcare, and economic inequality.
As PM Modi and Vice President Vance exchange pleasantries and political insights, the gathering in Paris reflects the intersection of diplomacy, technology, and the shared vision for a better future that all the nations involved aim to create. The warm interactions between the leaders set the tone for what is expected to be an impactful and thought-provoking summit in the days ahead.