French President Emmanuel Macron has announced a sweeping €10 billion investment in artificial intelligence (AI), positioning France as a global leader in the rapidly evolving tech sector. Dubbed “France’s Answer to Stargate,” the initiative aims to rival major AI projects like the US’s Stargate and China’s AI advancements.

The investment will focus on developing cutting-edge AI technologies, fostering innovation through public-private partnerships, and attracting top talent to France. Macron emphasized that the plan is not just about economic growth but also about ensuring ethical AI development. “We want France to be at the forefront of AI innovation while upholding European values of privacy, transparency, and fairness,” he said.

The announcement has been welcomed by tech leaders and policymakers, who see it as a crucial step in reducing Europe’s reliance on foreign AI technologies. However, critics have raised concerns about the feasibility of the plan and its potential impact on public spending.