PM Modi, Macron Launch India Innovates Initiative In France; Rafale Deal, AI And Nuclear Cooperation Dominate Talks
- By Thetripurapost Desk, Nice, France
- Jun 14, 2026
- 87
Prime Minister of India Narendra Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron jointly launched the India Innovates initiative in Nice on Sunday, marking a significant step in strengthening the India-France strategic partnership.
The high-profile event highlighted growing cooperation in innovation, artificial intelligence (AI), defence, startup ecosystems, climate action and nuclear energy.
Addressing innovators, entrepreneurs and industry leaders, PM Modi described the India-France relationship as a model partnership built on mutual trust, shared democratic values and a common vision for the future. He emphasized that cooperation between the two nations extends far beyond trade and diplomacy and is increasingly focused on solving global challenges through innovation and technology.
India-France Partnership Expands Into Emerging Technologies
Speaking at the event, President Emmanuel Macron praised India's remarkable rise as a global innovation powerhouse. He noted that France remains a key partner in India's development journey through collaboration in defence manufacturing, advanced technology, renewable energy and artificial intelligence.
Macron said India and France are working closely on next-generation technologies and can further deepen cooperation in civilian nuclear energy, including Small Modular Reactor (SMR) technology and other advanced nuclear solutions.
India Innovates Platform To Connect Startups With Global Investors
Highlighting India's thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem, PM Modi said the India Innovates initiative will connect Indian startups with European investors, technology experts and global business leaders.
The Prime Minister noted that while more than 100 startups participated in the programme, India today has over 200,000 registered startups, making it one of the world's fastest-growing innovation hubs.
He stressed that Indian entrepreneurs are driving transformation through artificial intelligence, biotechnology, quantum computing and space technology, sectors expected to shape the future global economy.
India's Youth Driving The Startup Revolution
PM Modi credited India's young innovators for developing practical solutions to social and economic challenges. He said the country's startup movement is helping create jobs, improve services and strengthen India's position as a global technology leader.
Macron: The World Wants To Innovate With India
President Macron asserted that India has emerged as a leading force in global research and innovation. He remarked that India produces a massive engineering workforce every year, making it a crucial partner in future technological development.
According to Macron, the global conversation is no longer about whether India can innovate, but about which nations and companies will collaborate with India to drive innovation.
India-France Support Open AI Models
Macron also highlighted the shared vision of India and France regarding artificial intelligence. He said both countries support open, multilingual and collaborative AI systems that encourage wider participation and innovation instead of restrictive technology models.
Rafale Fighter Jet Deal Likely To Be Key Agenda
Following the India Innovates launch, PM Modi and President Macron held bilateral talks covering technology, healthcare innovation, semiconductors, artificial intelligence, defence and space cooperation.
One of the most closely watched issues is India's proposed acquisition of 114 Rafale fighter aircraft. Sources indicate that India is seeking greater technological flexibility, including the integration of indigenous weapon systems into the fighter jets.
The proposed defence deal is yet to receive final approval from the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS), and further discussions are expected after the Prime Minister concludes his France visit.
Warm Welcome By Indian Diaspora In France
Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in France late Saturday night and received a grand welcome from members of the Indian community. During the interaction, he greeted supporters, interacted with children and attended cultural performances organized by the Indian diaspora.
The visit underscores the growing strength of India-France relations and signals a new phase of cooperation in innovation, defence, clean energy and emerging technologies.
Keywords: PM Modi France Visit, Narendra Modi France, Emmanuel Macron India-France Relations, India Innovates Program, Rafale Fighter Jet Deal, India France Strategic Partnership, AI Cooperation India France, Startup India, Nuclear Energy Cooperation, Small Modular Reactor, PM Modi France News, India France Defence Deal, Modi Macron Meeting 2026.
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