Prime Minister Narendra Modi showcased India's artificial intelligence ambitions at the VivaTech technology and startup summit in Paris on Thursday [1, 3].
This diplomatic and economic push aims to secure foreign investment and position India as a global leader in high-tech infrastructure. By aligning with French business leaders, India seeks to integrate its digital growth with European capital and expertise.
Modi served as the official AI Country Partner for the event [2, 3]. During the summit, he said India is a comprehensive hub for artificial intelligence, rail, logistics, and sustainable growth [1]. The Prime Minister's participation was intended to highlight the progress India has made in deploying AI across various sectors of its economy [2].
Foreign Secretary Misri said India was the specific country of focus for AI at the summit this year [3]. The outreach focused on the concept of "all-inclusive" AI, suggesting a strategy where technology is used to benefit a broad spectrum of the population rather than a small elite [2].
Beyond software, the Prime Minister used the platform to court French business leaders for projects involving physical infrastructure [1]. This includes efforts to modernize rail and logistics networks through the integration of sustainable technologies and AI-driven management [1].
The visit underscores a strategic effort to diversify India's technology partnerships. By engaging with the European startup ecosystem in Paris, India aims to move beyond traditional outsourcing and toward a role as a primary developer of global AI standards [1, 2].
“India was the AI country of focus at VivaTech this year”
India's role as the AI Country Partner at VivaTech 2026 signals a shift from being a provider of IT services to a strategic architect of AI infrastructure. By bundling AI with rail and logistics, the Indian government is attempting to attract 'hard tech' investments that combine digital intelligence with physical industrial growth, strengthening its economic ties with the European Union.
