Paris AI summit: PM Modi, US vice president JD Vance discuss bilateral ties before US trip

During the AI Action Summit in Paris, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and U.S. Vice President JD Vance engaged in discussions aimed at strengthening bilateral ties between India and the United States. Their interactions encompassed various facets of the evolving relationship between the two nations.

Energy Collaboration

A significant focus of their dialogue was on diversifying India's energy sources. The leaders explored how the United States could assist India in this endeavor through investments in American nuclear technology. This discussion aligns with India's recent proposal to amend its nuclear liability law to attract foreign and private investments in the nuclear sector. The strict liabilities under India's Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage Act of 2010 have previously hindered the implementation of an India-U.S. nuclear deal, which envisioned the participation of U.S. companies like General Electric and Westinghouse. 

Artificial Intelligence and Economic Growth

At the summit, both leaders emphasized the transformative potential of Artificial Intelligence (AI). Vice President Vance lauded Prime Minister Modi's perspective that AI will enhance productivity without replacing human roles. He stated, "AI is not going to replace human beings; it will only make them more productive." Vance criticized leaders in the AI sector for exaggerating fears about job displacement and assured that the Trump administration would pursue a growth path supportive of workers, using AI as a tool for job creation in the U.S. 

Trade and Investment Prospects

The discussions also touched upon enhancing trade and investment between India and the U.S. India is considering tariff reductions in various sectors to boost U.S. exports, aligning with New Delhi's domestic production plans. Additionally, there is a proposal to increase imports of energy and defense equipment from the U.S., reflecting a mutual interest in deepening economic ties. 

Upcoming U.S. Visit

These engagements in Paris precede Prime Minister Modi's scheduled visit to the United States, where he is set to meet President Donald Trump. The upcoming visit aims to further cement India-U.S. friendship and boost cooperation across diverse sectors, building upon the groundwork laid during the Paris discussions. The interactions between Prime Minister Modi and Vice President Vance at the Paris AI Summit underscore a shared commitment to leveraging technology for economic growth, diversifying energy partnerships, and enhancing bilateral trade, setting a positive trajectory for future collaborations.