Indian Prime Minister’s High-Profile Diplomatic Tour: Focus on AI, Trade, and Defense

Diplomatic Agenda in France

On February 10, Prime Minister Modi will attend a dinner hosted by MRO at the L Palace in Paris, where he will meet top tech CEOs and dignitaries. The next day, February 11, he will co-chair the AI Action Summit alongside French President Emmanuel Macron, with the key focus being on the responsible and inclusive development of AI. This summit will seek to address global concerns around AI’s ethical implications and its role in shaping the future.

Later on February 11, Modi will attend a bilateral dinner in Marseille, where discussions will likely focus on strengthening the relationship between India and France, particularly in the tech and defense sectors.

On February 12, Modi is scheduled to visit a war cemetery and inaugurate the new Indian Consulate in Marseille, strengthening diplomatic ties and enhancing India’s presence in the region.

Visit to the United States: Trade, Defense, and Immigration

After concluding his visit to France, Prime Minister Modi will travel to Washington, D.C., for an official working visit from February 12 to 13. His meeting with US President Donald Trump is expected to address critical issues such as trade, defense cooperation, and immigration. As the third world leader to visit the United States after Trump’s inauguration, Modi’s visit comes at a time when relations between the two nations are poised for deeper collaboration in areas like defense technology and strategic trade partnerships.

Additionally, Prime Minister Modi is expected to meet with Tesla CEO Elon Musk to discuss India’s growing electric vehicle (EV) sector. Given India’s ambitious plans to expand its EV market, this meeting is set to be pivotal in forging partnerships that could accelerate India’s transition to green energy.

Tensions Over Deportations

Amidst these diplomatic engagements, tensions have arisen following the deportation of 104 Indian migrants from the United States in early February. The migrants were deported in shackles, which has sparked significant backlash in India. Opposition parties have raised questions about the lack of intervention from New Delhi, particularly given the strong diplomatic ties between India and the United States. Critics are questioning why these deportations were allowed to happen in such a manner, despite India's close relationship with Washington.

Protests erupted in the Indian Parliament on February 6, with the Lok Sabha being adjourned multiple times as the issue dominated political discourse. In defense, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar stated that the Indian government had raised the matter with the United States, emphasizing that there should be no mistreatment of deportees. He reassured that the Indian government would continue to advocate for the fair treatment of all Indian nationals, ensuring that any cases of mistreatment are promptly addressed.

Conclusion

Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s diplomatic tour to France and the United States comes at a crucial juncture, with opportunities for advancing India’s interests in AI, defense, and trade. However, the issue of deportations has cast a shadow over the visit, highlighting the complexities of India’s relationship with the US. As Modi meets with key leaders and business figures, the outcome of these discussions could have long-lasting implications for India’s global position.

What are your thoughts on how the deportation issue might impact the broader India-US relationship during Modi's visit?