France Hosts Tech Executives and Political Figures at “Viva Technology” Conference in Paris

France Positions Itself as AI Hub with “Viva Technology” Conference

France is gearing up to showcase its prowess in artificial intelligence (AI) as it hosts the “Viva Technology” conference this week. The event will bring together tech executives, political figures, and industry leaders to delve into the impact of AI on various sectors, including upcoming elections and climate change.

Among the notable attendees are former U.S. secretary of state John Kerry, EU industrial chief Thierry Breton, and ex-Google boss Eric Schmidt. The conference aims to position Paris as a leading AI hub, with a particular focus on generative AI technologies.

Leading the charge is Paris-based LVMH, the world’s largest luxury group, which is a founding partner of VivaTech. The company’s Chairman and CEO Bernard Arnault, one of the wealthiest individuals globally, is set to showcase new tech innovations from prestigious brands like Louis Vuitton, Tag Heuer, and Dior.

France has been on a mission to establish itself as a leader in generative AI, attracting investments from American tech giants like Amazon and Microsoft. President Emmanuel Macron has been instrumental in driving this initiative, with the goal of fostering the growth of emerging AI companies in the region.

With close to $8 billion invested in French tech companies in 2023, France is on the rise in the tech landscape, trailing behind Britain but ahead of Germany in terms of funding. The country has seen a surge in tech startups, with Paris outpacing other European cities in the number of new companies founded.

Against the backdrop of Brexit and the changing tech landscape in Europe, France’s dynamic ecosystem and innovative spirit have captured the attention of investors. The country’s strong ties to the luxury industry have also played a vital role in attracting investment in technology, making it an attractive destination for AI startups.

As France continues to make strides in the AI sector, investors and industry experts are optimistic about the country’s potential to become a prominent player in the global tech arena. The “Viva Technology” conference serves as a platform for showcasing French innovations and highlighting the country’s growing influence in the AI space.