Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday underscored the depth of the India-France strategic partnership, describing bilateral ties as rooted in "connection and conviction", "innovation and inspiration", and "shared values and shared vision". He was addressing the Bharat Innovates 2026 event in Nice, France.
Modi Highlights Shared Vision
Speaking in the presence of French President Emmanuel Macron, PM Modi asserted that the partnership transcends trade and strategic interests, guided by a common vision for the future. "In this relationship between India and France, there is Connection, and there is Conviction too. In this relationship, there is Innovation too, and Inspiration too. In this relationship, there are Shared Values too, and a Shared Vision too," PM Modi said.
He added that while nations worldwide engage in trade and form strategic partnerships, some relationships go beyond shared interests—they are driven by a shared vision. "The partnership between Bharat and France is one such example," he remarked.
Joint Inauguration of Bharat Innovates 2026
PM Modi and President Macron jointly inaugurated the 'Bharat Innovates 2026' conclave, which brings together leading startups, innovators, and venture capital funds from India, France, and several other countries. The Prime Minister highlighted the growing collaboration between the two nations, noting that India and France have consistently progressed together and launched several new initiatives in recent years.
He welcomed the launch of the Bharat Innovates initiative, aimed at strengthening cooperation in innovation and entrepreneurship. "Both our countries have always moved forward together. Just this year, the India-France Year of Innovation was launched," he said. "And today, I am delighted that we are also launching Bharat Innovates together with France."
Gratitude to President Macron
Expressing gratitude to the French President for his participation, PM Modi said, "I express my deepest gratitude to my friend, President Macron, for coming here on this occasion."
Three-Day Innovation Conclave
The three-day innovation conclave, running from June 14 to June 16, serves as a powerful platform to connect Indian innovators with global investors, industry leaders, and academic institutions. The joint launch signals the growing importance of technology and innovation in the India-France relationship, which has seen deepened cooperation in recent years across sectors ranging from defence and space to digital technology and artificial intelligence.
More than 120 Indian deep-tech startups and over 15 leading higher education institutions, including the premier IITs and other research organisations, are participating in the event. Diplomatic observers view the conclave as a critical launchpad for India to showcase its deep-tech capabilities to a global audience, attract international funding, and secure vital partnerships in emerging technologies.
