A large crowd, decked out in colorful turbans and traditional attire, lined the streets, holding the Indian Tricolour and enthusiastically chanting slogans such as "Modi Modi" and "Modi Ki Guarantee." The crowd's vibrant energy, accompanied by music from traditional instruments like the Dhol, was a testament to the strong support and admiration PM Modi enjoys among the Indian-origin community in France.
As PM Modi emerged from the airport, he greeted the crowd with folded hands, acknowledging their warm reception. An elderly Sikh man shared his praise for the Prime Minister, stating, "We are extremely happy that you are celebrating the birth anniversary of the Sikh Guru and sahabjade. You are the only PM who thinks about the people of all religions."
PM Modi briefly interacted with the people who gathered to catch a glimpse of him, further strengthening his connection with the Indian diaspora.
This visit to France holds significant diplomatic importance, as PM Modi is in the country to co-chair the AI Action Summit alongside French President Emmanuel Macron. The summit aims to bring together global leaders and tech CEOs to discuss the future of Artificial Intelligence (AI), focusing on innovation, security, and ethical development.
In a statement ahead of his visit, PM Modi expressed his excitement for the summit and the opportunity to discuss the collaborative potential of AI in a manner that ensures public good and inclusivity. He also highlighted the bilateral aspect of his visit, focusing on enhancing the India-France strategic partnership, as outlined in the "2047 Horizon Roadmap."
In addition to the AI summit, PM Modi will be traveling to Marseille, where he will inaugurate India's first consulate in France and visit the International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor (ITER). The ITER project, aimed at harnessing fusion energy for global benefit, is a key area of collaboration, with India being an integral member of the consortium.
As part of his visit, PM Modi will also honor the sacrifices made by Indian soldiers during the World Wars at the Mazargues War Cemetery in Marseille, further emphasizing the enduring bond between India and France.
Following his European visit, PM Modi will travel to the U.S. for a two-day trip to strengthen India-U.S. relations. The focus of his U.S. visit will be on fostering deeper cooperation in areas like technology, trade, defense, energy, and supply chain resilience, continuing the work laid down during his previous meetings with President Donald Trump.
PM Modi's visit to France and subsequent U.S. trip signals a commitment to advancing India's global standing and forging stronger international partnerships.
