Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron met in Nice, France, to strengthen cooperation in defence and technology.
The meeting signals a deepening strategic partnership between New Delhi and Paris, focusing on critical infrastructure and emerging security domains before the global stage of the G7 summit.
The bilateral talks occurred between June 11 and June 12, 2024 [1, 2]. The discussions centered on expanding collaboration in civil nuclear energy, artificial intelligence, semiconductors, and biotechnology [1, 3]. Both leaders also addressed cooperation in space and under-sea domains [3].
This diplomatic engagement was part of a larger six-day Europe tour for Modi [4]. The visit preceded the 52nd G7 summit, which was scheduled to take place from June 13 to June 18, 2024 [4].
"Bolstering bilateral cooperation in defence, civil nuclear energy, innovation and critical technologies," PTI said [1].
The agenda for the meeting in Nice included partnerships in technology and innovation [5]. These talks aim to secure long-term strategic ties in high-tech sectors that are vital for national security and economic growth.
"Prime Minister Narendra Modi will hold talks with French President Emmanuel Macron in Nice, with defence, nuclear energy, technology and innovation partnerships high on the agenda," Business Standard staff said [5].
The focus on under-sea domains and semiconductors reflects a shared interest in diversifying supply chains and enhancing maritime surveillance capabilities. This cooperation serves as a cornerstone for both nations as they navigate shifting geopolitical alliances in Eurasia and the Indo-Pacific.
“Bolstering bilateral cooperation in defence, civil nuclear energy, innovation and critical technologies.”
The timing of these talks immediately preceding the G7 summit indicates that India and France are aligning their strategic interests in critical technology and energy. By focusing on semiconductors and under-sea domains, both nations are attempting to reduce dependencies on single-source suppliers and strengthen their security architectures in the Indo-Pacific region.
