Paris [France]: Prime Minister Narendra Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron have launched the India-France Roadmap on Artificial Intelligence (AI), marking a significant step in technological collaboration. The two nations also signed a Declaration of Intent to establish a partnership on Advanced Modular Reactors (AMR) and Small Modular Reactors (SMR).

Key Highlights of the Bilateral Talks

1. Strengthening Global Cooperation

  • Both leaders emphasized the need for reforming the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) and agreed to work closely in multilateral forums.
  • France reaffirmed its strong support for India’s permanent membership in the UNSC and discussed the regulation of veto use in cases of mass atrocities.
  • Discussions were held on major global issues, including the Middle-East conflict and the war in Ukraine.

2. Defence and Security Ties

  • The leaders reviewed the progress of the India-France Defence Industrial Roadmap and praised the indigenization of Scorpene submarines in India.
  • They discussed potential collaborations on missiles, helicopter engines, and jet engines, along with France’s interest in India’s Pinaka Multi-Barrel Rocket Launcher (MBRL).
  • The launch of FRIND-X (France-India Defence Startup Excellence) was announced to boost defence innovation.
  • India was included as an observer in the Eurodrone MALE program, strengthening defence partnerships.
  • Both nations reaffirmed their commitment to counter-terrorism and combating terrorism financing networks.

3. Technology and Innovation

  • The India-France Year of Innovation will be inaugurated in New Delhi in March 2026.
  • Indian startups were welcomed into France’s Station F incubator, fostering deeper ties in AI and digital technology.
  • Expansion of India’s Unified Payments Interface (UPI) in France was highlighted as a key milestone in fintech cooperation.

4. Energy and Climate Cooperation

  • The leaders reaffirmed the importance of nuclear energy for energy security and a low-carbon economy.
  • Progress on the Jaitapur Nuclear Power Plant Project was reviewed, along with efforts to enhance cooperation in civil nuclear energy.
  • Both countries reiterated their commitment to climate action, supporting sustainable lifestyles and the United Nations Oceans Conference (UNOC-3).
  • France joined the Mangrove Alliance for Climate in partnership with India and the UAE.

5. Trade and Economic Growth

  • Bilateral trade between India and France reached a record high in 2024, with both leaders acknowledging vast untapped potential for investment.
  • A regional edition of the Raisina Dialogue focusing on Mediterranean issues will be hosted in Marseille in 2025.

6. Education and Cultural Exchange

  • The International Classes Scheme in France is set to boost Indian student mobility, with 10,000 Indian students expected in France by 2025.
  • Both countries aim to increase the number of Indian students in France to 30,000 by 2030.

A Stronger Strategic Partnership

The Horizon 2047 Roadmap continues to guide India-France relations towards long-term cooperation across key sectors. PM Modi also congratulated President Macron on the successful hosting of the Paris Olympics 2024, with India seeking France’s expertise in preparing for the 2036 Olympics bid.

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This visit marks another step forward in the deepening India-France Strategic Partnership, reinforcing their collaboration across defence, technology, energy, and global diplomacy.