Modi, Macron highlight innovation partnership at Bharat Innovates 2026
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron jointly inaugurated Bharat Innovates 2026 in Nice on Sunday, underscoring the expanding partnership between India and France across key sectors such as innovation, artificial intelligence, climate action and civil nuclear energy.
Speaking at the event, Macron praised India’s growing reputation as a hub of innovation and noted that the two countries have developed a strong partnership in strategic areas including AI and environmental sustainability. He reiterated France’s support for India’s Make-in-India initiative and said French companies have participated in several sectors under the programme.
The French President also pointed to opportunities for greater collaboration in civil nuclear power, particularly in the development and deployment of Small Modular Reactors (SMRs).
Addressing the gathering, Modi said India has evolved from being primarily a user of global technologies to becoming a significant contributor to worldwide solutions. He emphasized that innovation and technology are central to India’s vision for addressing future global challenges.
The Prime Minister described India-France ties as a relationship built not only on mutual interests but also on shared goals and values. According to him, the partnership is rooted in trust, innovation, common aspirations and a long-term vision for global progress.
Modi noted that both countries have launched several initiatives together in recent years and have worked closely on addressing international challenges. He cited cooperation in areas such as the International Solar Alliance, artificial intelligence discussions, security and sustainable development as examples of joint efforts aimed at benefiting humanity.