France and India must shape AI rules together, says Emmanuel Macron

Thursday 19 February 2026 - 13:00

By: Sahili Aya

France and India must shape AI rules together, says Emmanuel Macron

French President Emmanuel Macron has called for closer cooperation between France and India to help shape global rules governing artificial intelligence, warning that the technology has become a decisive arena of strategic competition.

Speaking at a high-level AI summit in New Delhi, Macron stressed that artificial intelligence is no longer just a technological breakthrough but a geopolitical force reshaping economic and political balances worldwide. He noted that rapid advances in AI, graphics processing units and semiconductor technologies are reinforcing the influence of major technology companies and deepening global competition.

According to the French leader, the growing concentration of technological power among a handful of global players risks widening inequalities and limiting strategic independence for many nations. However, he underlined that such dominance is not inevitable.

Macron argued that countries like France and India have the capacity to chart an alternative path based on innovation, independence and strategic autonomy. He described this vision as “sovereign AI” — technology that is developed, regulated and deployed in a way that safeguards national interests while supporting sustainable and inclusive economic growth.

The president emphasized the importance of multilateral cooperation and rules-based governance to prevent misuse and ensure that AI systems are transparent, safe and environmentally responsible. He called for stronger partnerships grounded in shared values such as scientific progress, respect for the rule of law and global balance.

Macron also urged governments and institutions to invest in sustainable AI infrastructure, promote accessibility and establish safeguards against abuse. In his view, coordinated international action is essential to ensure that artificial intelligence serves humanity rather than exacerbates geopolitical rivalries.

By reinforcing collaboration between Paris and New Delhi, Macron suggested, both nations could play a leading role in shaping a more balanced and inclusive global AI framework.