Paris Vivatech tech fair opens with around 15,000 start-ups

PARIS, France — PARIS — Vivatech, one of Europe's largest technology and start-up fairs, opened in Paris on Wednesday with around 15,000 start-ups and technology companies taking part, according to organizers. Exhibits at this year's event focus on artificial intelligence, green energy, mobility and digital health products. Participants have traveled from across Europe, as well as from North America, Asia and the Middle East. Organizers said the fair is designed to connect start-ups with investors and create a setting for partnership and collaboration talks. Dedicated stages across the venue are hosting demonstrations of AI applications, robotics and sustainable transport technologies. Panel discussions are addressing the future of the tech industry, regulatory frameworks and digital transformation. Vivatech is viewed as a key gathering point for France's technology ecosystem. Organizers reported that attendance figures at this year's edition are higher than in previous years.