President Emmanuel Macron in India for AI Impact Summit
Wednesday 18 /02 /2026
President Emmanuel Macron is on a three-day official state visit to India (17–19 February 2026) at the invitation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, marking one of the most significant diplomatic engagements between Paris and New Delhi in recent years.
Strategic Visits: Mumbai to New Delhi
– Macron began his trip in Mumbai, where he held high-level bilateral talks with PM Modi focusing on defence, trade, technology, energy, and global geopolitical issues.
– The leaders elevated Franco-Indian relations to a “special global strategic partnership”, underlining cooperation across defence, clean energy, space, and artificial intelligence.
– Bilateral economic and defence cooperation was showcased by potential major deals, including the near-finalisation of an order for 114 additional Rafale fighter jets and new aerospace joint ventures like a helicopter assembly line in Karnataka.
After concluding his engagements in Mumbai, Macron travelled to New Delhi to participate in the India AI Impact Summit 2026.
President Emmanuel Macron in India for AI Impact Summit 2026
French President Emmanuel Macron is on a high-profile official visit to India, where he is attending the India AI Impact Summit 2026 in New Delhi. The visit marks a major step forward in France–India cooperation in artificial intelligence, defence, innovation, and global technology governance.
The three-day visit underscores Paris’ commitment to expanding its strategic footprint in the Indo-Pacific region while reinforcing its long-standing partnership with India.
AI at the Centre of Macron’s Visit
At the India AI Impact Summit 2026, President Macron emphasized that artificial intelligence must serve humanity and remain inclusive rather than being dominated by a handful of global powers. His participation signals France’s determination to shape international AI governance through ethical frameworks, democratic oversight, and multilateral cooperation.
Macron highlighted the importance of:
- Responsible AI innovation
- Data protection and digital sovereignty
- Collaborative research between France and India
- Reducing over-dependence on major tech superpowers
France aims to position itself as a leading voice in AI ethics and innovation within Europe and globally.
Strengthening the France–India Strategic Partnership
During his visit, President Macron held bilateral talks with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, focusing on deepening the France–India strategic partnership.
Key areas of cooperation include:
Defence Cooperation
France and India continue discussions on expanding defence ties, including aerospace collaboration and potential new defence procurement agreements. The two countries reaffirmed their commitment to long-term military and security cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region.
Technology & Innovation
The leaders explored joint ventures in artificial intelligence, space technology, digital infrastructure, and clean energy innovation. Collaborative AI research centers and academic exchanges are expected to expand under new agreements.
Economic & Trade Relations
France remains one of India’s key European partners in trade and investment. Business leaders accompanying Macron are seeking to expand French industrial presence in India, particularly in technology and advanced manufacturing sectors.
A Global Vision for AI Governance
Macron’s participation in the India AI Impact Summit 2026 reflects a broader global ambition: ensuring AI development benefits all societies, not just a limited group of dominant economies.
France and India are aligning on:
- Democratic AI standards
- Global South representation in tech policy
- Ethical AI development frameworks
- Multilateral digital cooperation
The summit brings together world leaders, policymakers, tech executives, and researchers, positioning India as a growing global hub for AI dialogue and innovation.
Diplomatic Significance of the Visit
The visit comes at a time of evolving geopolitical dynamics. France views India as a key strategic partner in balancing global power structures and promoting a rules-based international order.
President Macron’s trip reinforces:
- France’s Indo-Pacific strategy
- Strengthened EU–India engagement
- Long-term diplomatic, economic, and technological collaboration
The France–India partnership continues to expand beyond traditional defence ties into emerging technologies that will define the global economy in the coming decades.
President Emmanuel Macron’s presence at the India AI Impact Summit 2026 demonstrates France’s commitment to ethical artificial intelligence, international cooperation, and a stronger France–India alliance.
As AI reshapes global economies and governance systems, Paris and New Delhi are positioning themselves as collaborative leaders in building a responsible, inclusive digital future.
By. Emanuel kolvin Indian Correspondent
