By Anjali Sharma
WASHINGTON – India Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday addressed the 14th India-France CEOs Forum in Paris with President Macron, PM Modi highlighted the opportunities offered by the India growth story, in the defence, energy, highway, civil aviation, space, healthcare, fintech, and sustainable development sectors.
Modi highlighted India’s attractiveness as a favored global investment destination, based on its stable polity and predictable policy ecosystem.
The forum brought together CEOs from a diverse group of companies from both sides, focused on sectors such as defence, aerospace, critical and emerging technologies, infrastructure, advanced manufacturing, artificial intelligence, life-sciences, wellness and lifestyle, and food and hospitality.
Modi noted the expanding India-France business and economic collaboration and the impetus it has provided to the strategic partnership between the two countries.
He spoke on the reforms announced in the recent budget, he noted that the insurance sector was now open to 100% FDI and civil nuclear energy sector for private participation with focus on SMR and AMR technologies; customs rate structure was rationalised; and simplified income tax code was being brought in to enhance Ease of Living.
Modi referred to the government’s commitment to continue ushering in reforms, he noted that a high-level committee for regulatory reforms had been constituted to establish trust-based economic governance. In the same spirit, more than 40,000 compliances had been rationalized in the last few years.
He underlined global appreciation and interest in India’s skills, talent and innovation and in its newly launched AI, Semiconductor, Quantum, Critical Minerals and Hydrogen missions.
PM called upon French enterprises to partner India for mutual growth and prosperity.
He outlined the importance of active engagement in these sectors, reaffirming the commitment of both nations to fostering innovation, investment, and technology-driven partnerships.
“The India-France CEO Forum plays a key role in strengthening economic ties and fostering innovation. It is gladdening to see business leaders from both nations collaborate and create new opportunities across key sectors. This drives growth, investment, and ensures a better future for the coming generations.” he wrote in a post on X.
Modi said, “This is more than just a business event–it’s a convergence of the brightest minds from India and France. You are embracing the mantra of innovation, collaboration, and elevation, driving progress with purpose. Beyond forging boardroom connections, you are actively reinforcing the strategic partnership between India and France.”
He also underlined the deep trust and shared values between India and France, citing democratic values, innovation, and serving the people as the pillars of their friendship.
“India and France aren’t just connected by democratic values. Deep trust, innovation, and serving the people are the pillars of our friendship. Our relationship isn’t limited to just our two nations. Together, we’re providing solutions to global problems,” PM Modi added.
Modi also co-chaired the AI Action Summit with French President Emmanuel Macron in Paris. the week-long summit culminated in a High-Level Segment attended by global leaders, policymakers, and industry experts.
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