Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron jointly launched the India-France Year of Innovation program in Paris [1].

This initiative, also referred to as "Bharat Innovates," aims to strengthen bilateral ties by integrating startup ecosystems and venture-capital partnerships between the two nations [1]. By fostering cooperation in artificial intelligence, the program seeks to create a technological bridge that includes other countries across the Global South [1, 2].

The program focuses on creating a framework for innovation that allows entrepreneurs and investors from both India and France to collaborate more effectively [1]. This effort is designed to advance AI initiatives and ensure that the benefits of emerging technologies are shared more broadly [2].

During the event, Modi said he expressed support for the creation of an AI foundation at the Council for Sustainable AI [1].

"I welcome the decision to set up the AI foundation at the Council for Sustainable AI," Modi said. "I congratulate France and my dear friend President Macron for their initiatives and assure our full support" [1].

The launch took place on Tuesday, Feb. 17, 2024, during Modi's visit to France [1]. The event was attended by members of the Indian diaspora in Paris, who greeted the Prime Minister upon his arrival [2].

The collaboration emphasizes the strategic importance of AI in modern governance and economic growth. By aligning their venture-capital interests, India and France intend to accelerate the scaling of innovative startups that can compete on a global stage [1, 2].

“India and France jointly launched the 'Bharat Innovates' program to boost startup and venture-capital collaboration.”

The 'Bharat Innovates' program signals a shift toward a more integrated technological partnership between India and France, moving beyond traditional defense and aerospace ties. By focusing on the Global South and sustainable AI, the two nations are positioning themselves as alternative hubs for innovation and ethical AI governance, challenging the current dominance of U.S. and Chinese tech ecosystems.