Prime Minister Narendra Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron launched the ‘Bharat Innovates’ platform during a bilateral meeting in Nice on June 14, 2026 [1].

The initiative marks a strategic pivot toward technology-driven diplomacy, aiming to integrate the startup ecosystems of both nations to tackle global challenges. By focusing on artificial intelligence and innovation, the two countries seek to build a framework for shared prosperity, and technical cooperation.

The leaders met at Villa Kerylos in Nice [2]. The agenda centered on the ‘Bharat Innovates’ platform, which is designed to drive cooperation in AI and the growth of startups. This collaboration is intended to showcase India's expanding startup ecosystem to French investors, and tech partners.

Modi said, "Innovation is in India's DNA." He also described the India-France partnership as being built on "connection and conviction."

President Macron echoed these sentiments during the summit. Macron said, "India is a country of innovation."

The meeting took place as part of a broader diplomatic visit to Europe. The discussions included the India-France strategic partnership and how the two nations can find joint solutions to global challenges through a shared commitment to innovation. The launch of the platform is expected to facilitate a more seamless exchange of talent, and technology between the two regions.

Both leaders emphasized that the partnership extends beyond economic interests to a deeper strategic alignment. The ‘Bharat Innovates’ platform will serve as the primary vehicle for this technical exchange, focusing on scalable AI solutions, and entrepreneurial growth [1].

“"Innovation is in India's DNA"”

The launch of Bharat Innovates signals a transition in India-France relations from traditional defense and aerospace cooperation toward a digital-first strategic partnership. By leveraging AI and startup networks, both nations are attempting to reduce technological dependencies on other global superpowers while fostering a bilateral corridor for high-tech entrepreneurship.