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'Yes, this is AI': Emmanuel Macron strikes a pose with PM Modi in viral 'photo' ahead of AI Summit appearance

The AI-generated 'photo' shared by French President Emmanuel Macron sees him making a heart symbol with PM Modi and smiling

PM Narendra Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron in the latter's viral AI-generated photo (L); A real photo of the two leaders during the India-France Year of Innovation 2026 ceremony in Mumbai (R) | X/@EmmanuelMacron, PTI via PMO

French President Emmanuel Macron on Wednesday shared an AI-generated post on X featuring himself and PM Narendra Modi, ahead of his official appearance at the India AI Impact Summit 2026.

The photo, which visibly says 'Yes, this is AI' at the bottom, shows the two leaders making a heart symbol with their hands, looking forward, and smiling wide.

"When friends connect, innovation follows. Ready for the AI Impact Summit," Macron wrote in the post, which garnered more than 15,000 likes within a few hours.

Surrounded by screens and computers to highlight technological collaborations between the two countries, the photo also shows two white mugs bearing the Indian and French flags on them.

Taking place from February 16-20 (later extended to February 21) at the Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi, the Summit, which is centred around artificial intelligence, brings together policymakers, industry leaders, innovators, and creators from India and abroad.

Macron's arrival for the Summit on Thursday comes on the last day of the French President's—and First Lady Brigitte Macron's—three-day official visit to India, at Modi's behest.

This is Macron's first time in Mumbai, and fourth visit to India, aimed at boosting strategic partnerships and assessing regional and global issues.

Netizens react

"Brothers celebrating Operation Sindoor," an X user wrote, referring to military ties between New Delhi and Paris.

"A partnership of visions! ... Looking forward to seeing the AI Impact translate into real-world solutions for both nations," another X user said.

"Building and distributing AI solutions requires significant infrastructure, including data centers and high-speed networks, which can be a logistical challenge in certain regions," a third user pointed out.