France is positioning itself as a major player in AI, with President Emmanuel Macron highlighting the country's nuclear-powered advantage. Speaking at the AI Action Summit in Paris, he said France generates more electricity than it consumes, making it an ideal destination for energy-intensive AI companies.

Europe must act swiftly to remain competitive, according to Macron, who announced E109 billion in AI investments. He described the summit as a wake-up call for Europe, warning that the continent risks lagging behind the US and China. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen is set to outline the EU's AI strategy, aiming to simplify regulations, expand markets, and boost computing power.

The EU's AI Act faces criticism for stifling innovation, with Macron calling for a balance between regulation and technological progress. He emphasised that AI should serve humanity while aligning with global standards. France will adopt a 'Notre-Dame strategy', aiming for rapid AI advancements, mirroring the country's swift reconstruction of the cathedral after the 2019 fire.

European businesses were urged to prioritise local AI firms over foreign competitors. Macron argued that companies in the US, China, and India favour homegrown solutions and called for a similar approach in Europe. Strengthening domestic AI development, he said, would help the continent stay competitive in the rapidly evolving sector.