‘When friends connect..’: Emmanuel Macron shares AI-generated image with PM Modi ahead of AI Summit

While sharing the picture on X, Macron termed PM Modi his “friend” and signaled strong confidence in the future of India-France collaboration in AI and other technological innovations.

• Macron shares AI image with Modi, praises India-France tech ties
• India and France upgrade to Special Global Strategic Partnership
• Indo-French AI centers, tech hubs, and helicopter assembly announced

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French President Emmanuel Macron on Wednesday shared an AI-generated image of himself with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, calling him a “friend” and expressing optimism about the future of India-France collaboration in artificial intelligence and technology.

Posting the image on X on the sidelines of the India AI Impact Summit 2026, Macron wrote, “When friends connect, innovation follows. Ready for The AI Impact Summit!”

Emmanuel Macron is on a three-day official visit to India from February 17 to 19 at the invitation of PM Modi. He is scheduled to attend the AI summit at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi, which will be inaugurated by the Prime Minister on February 19. Around 20 heads of state are expected to be present at the inaugural session.

When friends connect, innovation follows. Ready for The AI Impact Summit! pic.twitter.com/oh4700pQ09

— Emmanuel Macron (@EmmanuelMacron) February 18, 2026

Before arriving in Delhi, Macron and First Lady Brigitte Macron concluded engagements in Mumbai, including bilateral talks with PM Modi aimed at strengthening cooperation in trade, defence, energy and critical technologies.

Addressing a joint press conference, PM Modi described the India-France relationship as “special” and a pillar of stability in uncertain global times.

“The world is facing a period of uncertainty. In this environment, the India-France partnership is a force for global stability,” he said.

The Prime Minister announced that the two nations have decided to elevate ties to a Special Global Strategic Partnership. He also unveiled several joint initiatives, including the Indo-French Centre for AI in Health, the Indo-French Centre for Digital Science and Technology, and the National Centre of Alliance for Skilling in Aeronautics.

Additionally, he confirmed that an assembly line for H125 single-engine light utility helicopters of French origin will be set up in India.

President Macron echoed the sentiment, highlighting the depth of trust between the two countries.

“We have decided today to elevate this partnership and give it a new status. We have complete faith in this relationship,” he said, noting that India and France have worked closely over the past eight years in areas such as the Indo-Pacific, artificial intelligence and clean energy.

The AI-generated image shared by Macron served as a symbolic gesture underscoring both leaders’ focus on innovation and the growing technology partnership between the two nations.