Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, French President Emmanuel Macron, and World Bank President Ajay Banga were spotted sharing a lighthearted moment at the G20 Summit in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. A video posted on Macron’s official X account captured the moment when Macron greeted Modi with a hug, and Banga joined in with a witty comment that elicited laughter from the two leaders.
In the video, Banga approached the duo and quipped, “He [Macron] is going from one Indian to another,” prompting laughter from Modi and Macron. Modi responded by saying, “He’s always there,” showcasing the camaraderie between the powerful leaders.
Macron later shared the video on social media, expressing his pleasure in meeting Modi and highlighting the rich and multifaceted partnership between France and India. The two leaders discussed the progress on initiatives launched during Macron’s state visit to India in January, as well as key international issues.
Ajay Banga, the Indian-born American business executive who currently serves as the chief of the World Bank, played a key role in the interaction between Modi and Macron. Previously, Banga held executive positions at Mastercard, showcasing his expertise in the business world.
During their bilateral meeting, Modi and Macron discussed enhancing cooperation in various sectors, including space, energy, and AI. Modi also congratulated Macron on the successful hosting of the Paris Olympics and Paralympics earlier that year. The leaders emphasized the importance of collaboration in futuristic areas and enhancing people-to-people linkages between India and France.
In addition to Macron, Modi also met with Italian PM Giorgia Meloni and UK PM Keir Starmer on the sidelines of the G20 Summit in Rio. The interactions highlighted the importance of diplomatic relations and cooperation between nations on a global platform.
