PM Narendra Modi’s Diplomatic Visit to France and the United States
Prime Minister Narendra Modi embarked on a diplomatic tour to France and the United States to enhance bilateral relations and strengthen strategic partnerships.
Visit to France
At the invitation of French President Emmanuel Macron, PM Modi visited France from February 10-12, 2025. The visit featured key engagements, including the Artificial Intelligence Action Summit, which both leaders co-chaired. The summit brought together global leaders, industry experts, and academics to advance AI collaboration.
The bilateral discussions commenced with the India-France CEO Forum, where Modi encouraged French businesses to explore opportunities in defence, civil nuclear, insurance, and advanced manufacturing. In a rare gesture reflecting strong personal trust, Macron and Modi travelled together to Marseille on the French presidential aircraft. Their discussions continued upon arrival, covering geopolitical developments in Europe, West Asia, and the Indo-Pacific.
The visit also included a tribute at Mazargues War Cemetery to honour Indian soldiers of World Wars I and II, the inauguration of the Indian Consulate General in Marseille, and a visit to the ITER facility in Cadarache for discussions on nuclear energy cooperation. The two nations emphasized joint development of Small and Advanced Modular Reactors and deepened AI collaboration, ensuring safe and secure AI systems aligned with democratic values.
A joint statement highlighted key agreements, including defence cooperation, particularly in Scorpene submarine production, and a trilateral development initiative for the Indo-Pacific.
Visit to the United States
Following his France visit, Modi travelled to the U.S., where he met President Donald Trump to discuss critical issues, including trade, defence, energy, and geopolitical concerns. Modi emphasized the India-U.S. “MEGA partnership,” aligning India’s Viksit Bharat 2047 vision with Trump’s MAGA agenda.
Key outcomes included:
- Defence Collaboration: The U.S. announced the sale of F-35 stealth fighter jets to India, marking a significant boost to defence ties.
- Trade & Energy: Both nations set a $500 billion bilateral trade target by 2030, with India committing to a $25 billion energy purchase to balance trade deficits.
- Geopolitical Engagement: Discussions covered the Russia-Ukraine conflict, the India-China border dispute, and the extradition of 26/11 accused Tahawwur Rana. Trump also offered mediation in the India-China border issue.
- Immigration & Security: Modi addressed illegal immigration, expressing India’s readiness to repatriate citizens living unlawfully in the U.S.
Despite warm relations, Trump’s 25% tariff on Indian steel and aluminium remained unchanged, with the U.S. advocating a reciprocal approach to trade policies. Modi also met U.S. NSA Michael Waltz to discuss defence, technology, and security cooperation.
The visit concluded successfully, reinforcing India’s strategic partnerships with France and the U.S., paving the way for stronger economic and diplomatic ties.
Irish Samachar English News
{OR} Kindly click to follow the Irish Samachar News channel on WhatsApp
Comments are closed.