PM Modi and President Macron unveil India-France AI roadmap, sign nuclear cooperation pact, and bolster defense collaboration
Paris [France], February 13:
India and France have taken significant steps to enhance their strategic partnership, signing multiple agreements covering artificial intelligence (AI), nuclear energy, defense cooperation, and multilateral engagement. The agreements were announced following a high-profile meeting between Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron in Paris.
Key Agreements Signed
1. AI and Technology Collaboration
PM Modi and President Macron launched the India-France Roadmap on Artificial Intelligence (AI), reinforcing their commitment to developing safe, open, secure, and trustworthy AI technologies. The roadmap will foster deeper collaboration between Indian startups and French incubators, including the renowned Station F.
2. Nuclear Energy and Small Modular Reactors (SMRs)
The two leaders signed a Declaration of Intent to establish a partnership on Advanced Modular Reactors and Small Modular Reactors (SMRs). They also reaffirmed their commitment to civil nuclear energy cooperation, particularly the Jaitapur Nuclear Power Plant Project.
Strengthening Defense Ties
3. Boosting Defense Industrial Cooperation
Reiterating their long-standing defense cooperation, both countries:
- Welcomed progress in Scorpene submarine production in India, including the integration of DRDO’s Air Independent Propulsion (AIP) into future submarines.
- Discussed further collaboration on missile systems, helicopter engines, and jet engines.
- Announced the launch of FRIND-X (France-India Defence Startup Excellence), a collaborative initiative to drive defense innovation.
- Confirmed India’s observer status in the Eurodrone MALE program, strengthening aerospace cooperation.
PM Modi also invited the French Army to explore India’s Pinaka Multi-Barrel Rocket Launcher (MBRL) system, suggesting its acquisition would further cement Indo-French defense ties.
Multilateral Cooperation and Global Challenges
4. United Nations Security Council (UNSC) Reform
India and France reaffirmed the urgent need for UNSC reform, with France reiterating its firm support for India’s permanent membership. They also agreed to coordinate on regulating veto powers in cases of mass atrocities.
5. India-Middle East-Europe Corridor (IMEC) and Indo-Pacific Engagement
The two sides:
- Pledged to work closely on IMEC, emphasizing its role in boosting connectivity, clean energy access, and economic sustainability.
- Strengthened Indo-Pacific cooperation, reinforcing their shared commitment to a free, open, and inclusive region.
- Welcomed France’s participation in the Mangrove Alliance for Climate, a joint initiative by India and the UAE.
Expanding Trade, Education, and Climate Commitments
6. Bilateral Trade and Investment
Recognizing the record level of bilateral trade in 2024, Modi and Macron highlighted the vast untapped potential for further economic cooperation.
7. Higher Education and Student Mobility
To enhance student exchange, both countries:
- Launched an International Classes Scheme for Indian students in French universities.
- Reaffirmed their target of 30,000 Indian students in France by 2030.
- Expected student numbers in 2025 to reach 10,000, a record high.
8. Climate Change and Sustainable Development
- Renewed bilateral cooperation on climate action and sustainable lifestyles.
- Supported the Paris Pact for People and the Planet to reform international finance for climate resilience.
- India offered its support to France for hosting UNOC-3 (United Nations Oceans Conference) in June 2025.
Looking Ahead: The Horizon 2047 Roadmap
To deepen their strategic partnership, both nations reaffirmed their long-term vision under the Horizon 2047 roadmap, setting ambitious goals for the future.
PM Modi congratulated President Macron on the Paris 2024 Olympics, with both leaders committing to sharing expertise in organizing major sporting events, including India’s bid for the 2036 Olympics and Paralympics.
With these agreements, India and France have reinforced their status as key strategic partners, working together across defense, energy, technology, trade, and global governance.