Prime Minister Narendra Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron held delegation-level talks and inaugurated the Bharat Innovates 2026 event in France [1, 2].
The meeting underscores a strategic pivot toward deep-tech collaboration between the two nations. By aligning their innovation ecosystems, India and France aim to create new investment partnerships, and scale emerging technologies on a global stage.
The joint inauguration of Bharat Innovates 2026 serves as a showcase for India's growing startup landscape. The event features 120 startups [1] and involves more than 15 premier institutions [1]. These participants are designed to bridge the gap between academic research and commercial application, a key goal of the bilateral innovation cooperation.
This diplomatic engagement took place as part of a broader visit to France and Slovakia. PM Modi's itinerary included visits from June 13 to 14 [2] and again from June 16 to 19 [2]. The activities centered around the G7 summit venues in Evian and Paris [2].
During the talks, the leaders focused on strengthening ties in research and development. The initiative is intended to encourage French investment into Indian deep-tech ventures while providing Indian entrepreneurs access to European markets [1].
Both leaders emphasized the importance of technological sovereignty and joint ventures in critical sectors. The collaboration aims to foster a sustainable environment for high-tech growth that benefits both the Indian and French economies [1].
“The event features 120 startups and involves more than 15 premier institutions.”
The launch of Bharat Innovates 2026 during a G7 summit signals India's intent to position itself as a global hub for deep-tech, moving beyond traditional IT services. By leveraging the G7 platform to secure French investment and institutional partnerships, India is integrating its startup ecosystem into the Western strategic framework to accelerate technological autonomy.
