Prime Minister Narendra Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron reviewed the India–France strategic partnership in Nice, agreeing to deepen cooperation across artificial intelligence, innovation, trade, energy, security and key regional issues. Modi arrived in the French Mediterranean city the previous night and jointly inaugurated the Bharat Innovates 2026 platform with Macron, showcasing India’s leading deep‑tech startups and technology companies.
According to the Ministry of External Affairs, the two leaders held wide‑ranging discussions covering AI, startups, fintech, science, space, mobility, health, infrastructure and sustainability. They also exchanged views on major international developments ahead of Modi’s participation in the G7 Summit.
Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri said the visit began with a strong focus on deep‑tech collaboration, highlighting sectors such as artificial intelligence, semiconductors, advanced computing, med‑tech, agri‑tech, defence, space and renewable energy. Modi said before departing New Delhi that France occupies a special place in India’s strategic vision, reflecting the growing momentum in bilateral ties.
Macron said the Indo‑French partnership has evolved beyond traditional diplomacy into a “deep reality,” calling India a global powerhouse central to France’s strategic, industrial and academic vision for the 21st century. He emphasised the need to advance cooperation in clean energy, research and long‑term industrial development.