In a significant move to advance civil nuclear cooperation, India and France have signed a declaration of intent to collaborate in the co-design, co-development, and co-production of Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) and Advanced Modular Reactors (AMRs). The decision was made during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to France, reflecting the growing strategic partnership between the two nations.

Advancing Nuclear Innovation

Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri highlighted the significance of this agreement, emphasizing that the demand for energy, especially with the rise of Artificial Intelligence (AI), makes nuclear energy an essential part of future energy security. Both countries aim to leverage their expertise to overcome challenges faced in conventional nuclear projects.

Joint Efforts for Clean Energy

In a joint statement, PM Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron reiterated the importance of nuclear energy in achieving a low-carbon economy. They acknowledged the strong India-France civil nuclear ties, particularly in relation to the Jaitapur Nuclear Power Plant Project.

Key agreements signed during the visit include:

A letter of intent for SMR and AMR development.
An implementing agreement between India’s GCNEP, DAE and France’s INSTN, CEA to enhance training and education for nuclear professionals.

Strategic Indo-Pacific Cooperation

India and France’s partnership extends beyond nuclear energy to economic development in the Indo-Pacific region. Their roadmap focuses on sustainable development goals, including:

Digital innovation and clean energy solutions
Climate-focused projects and biodiversity preservation
Women empowerment, education, health, and water sanitation

Boosting Innovation & AI Collaboration

As part of their strategic innovation push, India and France will co-host the next AI Summit and have designated 2026 as the India-France Year of Innovation. The two nations have also signed a declaration on AI cooperation, ensuring safe, secure, and trustworthy AI development for public welfare.

At the CEO’s Forum, PM Modi and President Macron launched the India-France Year of Innovation 2026 logo, symbolizing their commitment to advancing digital sciences, startups, and AI-based collaborations.