Get all your news in one place.
100's of premium titles.
One app.
Start reading
Radio France Internationale
Radio France Internationale
RFI

France powers ahead in AI development, with more funding, public service tools

Keen to "build genuine strategic autonomy", the French government is accelerating its efforts in artificial intelligence. Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu announced on Tuesday 655 million euros of additional investments and the beginning of a generalisation of its use by state services, 16 June 2026.
Keen to "build genuine strategic autonomy", the French government is accelerating its efforts in artificial intelligence. Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu announced on Tuesday 655 million euros of additional investments and the beginning of a generalisation of its use by state services, 16 June 2026. REUTERS - DADO RUVIC

French Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu announced on Tuesday a further investment of €655 million to accelerate the development of artificial intelligence as well as an AI programme for public service employees. France is keen to build strategic autonomy in the face of competition from China and the United States.

The French prime minister said France's responsibility must be to "protect its sovereignty" and "strengthen public services" in the race to develop digital technology.

Sign up to read this article
Read news from 100's of titles, curated specifically for you.
Already a member? Sign in here
Related Stories
Top stories on inkl right now
One subscription that gives you access to news from hundreds of sites
Already a member? Sign in here
Our Picks
Fourteen days free
Download the app
One app. One membership.
100+ trusted global sources.