Key Highlights of PM Modi's 2023 Visit to France

Key Highlights of PM Modi's Visit to France

Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recent visit to France focused on two major components: participation in the Artificial Intelligence (AI) Action Summit in Paris and enhancing Indo-French bilateral ties. This visit emphasized areas such as defence, trade, nuclear energy, and technological cooperation.

India's AI Approach vs. France's Regulatory Framework

India adopts a human-centric AI framework that prioritizes equitable AI distribution while fostering innovation. In contrast, France, as part of the EU, aligns with the EU AI Act, which implements a risk-based regulatory approach with stringent oversight. India, on the other hand, favors a more adaptable regulatory strategy to support its burgeoning digital economy while ensuring necessary safeguards.

The India-France AI Roadmap

The India-France AI Roadmap is a collaborative initiative aimed at:

• Developing responsible AI technology.
• Bridging the North-South AI divide.
• Addressing AI’s energy demands by minimizing its carbon footprint.

France's Role in India's Defence Sector

France is one of the top three suppliers of defence equipment to India. Notable collaborations include:

• P-75 Scorpene submarines.
• Rafale fighter jets and aircraft engines.
• Helicopter technology.
• Potential co-production of the Pinaka multi-barrel rocket launcher.
• Joint security cooperation, highlighted by the French Carrier Strike Group's visit to India in January 2025.
• Joint military exercises such as Varuna (naval) and La Perouse (multilateral maritime).

Expanding Beyond Defence

The India-France partnership is broadening into various sectors:

• Trade and Investment: Indo-French trade reached $20 billion in 2024.
• Innovation and Technology: Indian startups are set to be incubated at French Station F, with 2026 designated as the India-France Year of Innovation.
• Renewable Energy: Cooperation is on the rise following the US exit from the Paris Agreement.
• People-to-People Exchanges: Efforts are underway to increase Indian student enrollment in France from 10,000 to 30,000 by 2030.

France's Contribution to India's Nuclear Energy Expansion

France stands as a global leader in nuclear energy, generating approximately 70% of its electricity from nuclear sources. India and France are collaborating on Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) and various civil nuclear initiatives. France is also helping to develop a nuclear power plant in Maharashtra, aligning with India’s goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2070.

Supporting India in Global Trade Routes

Marseille has been designated as the gateway to the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC). During the visit, leaders explored CMA-CGM, a shipping company that manages 11.5% of Indian shipping activity. Marseille competes with Italy and Greece to become a key transit hub for Indian exports.

Challenges in the India-France Relationship

Despite the positive developments, the India-France relationship faces several challenges:

• Divergent AI regulations: India's flexible model contrasts with France's strict EU regulations.
• France's caution regarding technology transfers, which has slowed some defence collaborations.
• Geopolitical tensions in Europe, where French policies on immigration and trade may impact Indian students and businesses.

Broader Geopolitical Context

The India-France partnership is significant within the larger geopolitical landscape. Both nations maintain independent foreign policies, avoiding excessive alignment with global powers. Their collaboration aids in balancing the US-China strategic rivalry, particularly in areas like climate change, nuclear energy, and AI governance, positioning them as leaders in the Global South.

Key Takeaways from the Growing Partnership

• Strong defence collaboration with potential for co-production opportunities.
• Expanding trade and technology-driven economic relations.
• Enhanced cooperation in nuclear and renewable energy sectors.
• Focus on AI, digitalization, and startup incubation.
• Shared commitment to strategic autonomy in global affairs.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. What were the main components of PM Modi's visit to France?
Answer: PM Modi's visit included participating in the AI Action Summit and strengthening Indo-French ties, focusing on defence, trade, and technology.

Q2. How does India’s AI approach differ from France's?
Answer: India emphasizes a human-centric AI model, while France adheres to strict EU regulations through the EU AI Act, highlighting different regulatory philosophies.

Q3. What is the significance of the India-France AI Roadmap?
Answer: The roadmap aims to develop responsible AI technology, bridge the North-South divide, and reduce AI's carbon footprint, enhancing global collaboration.

Q4. How is France contributing to India's nuclear energy development?
Answer: France is aiding in the development of nuclear power plants and Small Modular Reactors, aligning with India's net-zero emissions target by 2070.

Q5. What challenges does the India-France relationship encounter?
Answer: Challenges include divergent AI regulations, France's cautious technology transfers, and geopolitical tensions that may impact bilateral exchanges.