French President Emmanuel Macron Confirms India Visit for AI Impact Summit in New Delhi
French President Emmanuel Macron has confirmed his upcoming visit to India next month, where he will take part in the highly anticipated AI Impact Summit scheduled for February 19–20, 2026 in New Delhi. This summit represents a significant event as it is the first global AI convening hosted in the Global South.
Objectives of the Visit
During his address to the diplomatic corps, Macron emphasized that the primary goal of this visit is to advance the joint India–France agenda on artificial intelligence and broader strategic cooperation. This follows the 2025 Paris AI summit that he co-chaired with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Significance of the AI Impact Summit
Macron described the previous Paris session as a diplomatic milestone and stressed that the upcoming New Delhi summit would aim to finalize international agreements on AI governance. The focus will be on finding a balance between rapid innovation and fair regulation, which is crucial in today’s fast-evolving technological landscape.
Expanding Bilateral Ties
The visit is also indicative of a strategic expansion in bilateral ties. Beyond the realm of technology, Macron pointed out that discussions in February will also address the need for securing supply chains for rare earth minerals. These minerals are essential for semiconductors and clean energy manufacturing, reflecting a shift from traditional defense-centered cooperation to a partnership focused on resources and technology aimed at reducing global dependencies.
Collaboration and Global Politics
India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar recently discussed the preparations for this visit while in Paris. He highlighted the alignment of India and France within key global forums such as the G7, G20, and BRICS. Jaishankar noted that as champions of multipolarity, the collaboration between India and France serves as a stabilizing force in the current global political landscape.
This visit and the discussions at the AI Impact Summit signal a promising future for India–France relations, showcasing a mutual commitment to leveraging technology for sustainable development and enhanced global cooperation.
