Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday said India is emerging as a provider of solutions to global challenges, driven by innovation, technology and the aspirations of its youth, as he jointly inaugurated the Bharat Innovates 2026 conclave with French President Emmanuel Macron in Nice.
Addressing the gathering, the Prime Minister highlighted the unique nature of India-France relations, describing them as a partnership built not only on shared interests but also on a shared vision for the future.
“Different countries across the world do trade with each other and also strike strategic partnerships with each other. But there are few relations which are driven by shared vision besides shared interests. India-France relations is one such relationship,” PM Modi said.
He said the partnership between the two countries is rooted in connection, conviction, innovation, inspiration, shared values and a common vision.
“This relationship has connection, conviction, innovation, inspiration, shared values and shared vision. Based on this foundation, we have launched new initiatives together and promoted new ideas over the past few years,” he said.
The Prime Minister noted that India and France have worked closely to address a range of global challenges through collaborative initiatives and strategic cooperation.
Referring to key areas of engagement, he said both countries have partnered in initiatives such as the International Solar Alliance, artificial intelligence-related dialogues and sustainability-driven projects.
“From security to sustainability, our two nations have worked together in finding solutions to challenges facing humanity,” PM Modi said.
Highlighting the significance of the India-France Year of Innovation 2026, the Prime Minister expressed satisfaction over the launch of Bharat Innovates, describing it as a major platform for connecting Indian innovation with global opportunities.
“I am delighted that today we are inaugurating Bharat Innovates with France,” he said.
Bharat Innovates 2026 marks the beginning of Prime Minister Modi’s France visit and serves as a flagship event showcasing India’s rapidly growing innovation and deep-tech ecosystem.
The three-day conclave has brought together around 120 Indian innovators, nearly 15 higher education institutions and more than 500 investors, including leading venture capital firms, corporate leaders, global CEOs and technology experts.
The event covers 13 sectors, including advanced computing, semiconductors, biotechnology, space technology, energy, healthcare and manufacturing.
Prime Minister Modi’s visit to France includes engagements in Nice, Evian and Paris. During the visit, he is scheduled to hold bilateral talks with President Macron and participate in the G7 Summit before attending the VivaTech technology summit in Paris.
-ANI
