Modi, Macron talks stress economic security
Why in the news?
Recently, the Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi, met with the French President, Emmanuel Macron, for bilateral discussions in Nice, during which both countries agreed upon the Innovation Roadmap 2030 and a Dialogue on Economic Security between India and France. Both parties laid emphasis on the immediate start of the India-European Union FTA, cooperation in Artificial Intelligence, critical minerals, space, nuclear energy, and resilient supply chains.
Background
India-France Strategic Partnership
India and France established a Strategic Partnership in 1998, which has evolved into one of India’s most comprehensive bilateral relationships. In 2026, the two countries elevated their relationship to a “Special Global Strategic Partnership”, reflecting growing cooperation in:
- Defence and security
- Space technology
- Civil nuclear energy
- Artificial Intelligence
- Climate action
- Indo-Pacific cooperation
- Trade and investment
France has consistently supported India’s strategic autonomy and multilateral ambitions.
Features
- Innovation & Technology: Adoption of the ‘Innovation Roadmap 2030’ for long-term direction, creation of a Joint India-France AI Working Group, and 19 agreements between innovation ecosystem entities.
- Economic Security & Trade: A new Dialogue on Economic Security focusing on supply chain resilience (especially critical minerals). A High-Level Mechanism to double bilateral trade in five years and a push for early FTA implementation.
- Strategic Sectors: Discussed private sector collaboration in the space sector and the implications of the SHANTI Act (nuclear sector legislation). The Foreign Secretary noted the field is open for French nuclear companies to participate directly or with Indian private partners.
- Education: Invitation for French universities to open campuses in India under the New Education Policy.
Way Forward
Accelerate Innovation Partnerships
- Establish joint innovation funds.
- Support university-industry collaboration.
- Promote startup exchanges.
Deepen AI Cooperation
- Develop common AI standards.
- Encourage open and trustworthy AI ecosystems.
- Promote ethical AI governance.
Strengthen Critical Mineral Partnerships
- Invest in overseas mineral assets.
- Develop recycling technologies.
- Build strategic reserves.
Expand Nuclear and Clean Energy Cooperation
- Encourage private-sector participation.
- Collaborate on Small Modular Reactors.
- Support low-carbon technologies.
Enhance Trade and Investment
- Fast-track implementation of the India-EU FTA.
- Improve the ease of doing business.
- Expand SME cooperation.
Build Resilient Supply Chains
- Diversify sourcing networks.
- Strengthen strategic stockpiles.
- Promote trusted technology partnerships.
Conclusion
The launching of Innovation Roadmap 2030 and the setting up of the Economic Security Dialogue represent a major step forward in the India-France Special Global Strategic Partnership. Given the growing convergence of tech, trade, and economic security, the two countries have emerged as key stakeholders in developing resilient value chains, responsible AI governance, and a transition to sustainable energy. In addition, the partnership holds potential for India to boost its strategic autonomy, develop its technology base, engage with Europe, and play a positive role in promoting global multipolarity.
