Launch of innovation focused bilateral initiative
India France Innovation Year Strengthens Strategic Technology Partnership: Prime Minister Narendra Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron launched the India-France Year of Innovation during Macron’s official visit from February 17 to 19, 2026. This initiative aims to strengthen cooperation in technology, artificial intelligence, research, and start-up ecosystems. It reflects the growing importance of innovation as a pillar of bilateral relations.
The initiative will promote collaboration between scientists, entrepreneurs, academic institutions, and technology companies. It also aims to enhance joint research and encourage innovation-led economic growth between the two countries.
Static GK fact: The India-France Strategic Partnership was officially established in 1998, making France one of India’s earliest strategic partners in Europe.
Focus on artificial intelligence and emerging technologies
A major highlight of the visit was the joint participation of both leaders in the AI Impact Summit held in Mumbai. This summit focuses on building ethical, inclusive, and human-centric artificial intelligence frameworks. It aligns with global efforts to ensure responsible use of AI technologies.
Earlier, both leaders co-chaired the AI Action Summit in France, which included representatives from over 100 countries. This demonstrates India and France’s leadership in shaping global AI governance.
The partnership also includes cooperation in digital infrastructure development, innovation funding, and AI capacity-building, especially for developing countries.
Static GK Tip: Artificial Intelligence refers to the ability of machines to perform tasks requiring human intelligence, such as learning, reasoning, and decision-making.
Defence cooperation remains a strong pillar
Defence ties remain a key component of the bilateral partnership. Recently, India approved a proposal to acquire 114 Rafale fighter jets from France under a government-to-government agreement. These aircraft are manufactured by the French company Dassault Aviation.
India already operates 36 Rafale jets in the Indian Air Force, and 26 naval Rafale aircraft have been ordered for aircraft carriers. This expansion will significantly strengthen India’s air defence capability and maritime security.
France has emerged as one of India’s most reliable defence partners, contributing to India’s efforts toward self-reliance in defence manufacturing.
Static GK fact: The Rafale fighter jet is a multi-role combat aircraft capable of air superiority, reconnaissance, and nuclear strike missions.
Cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region
India and France share a common vision of a free, open, and inclusive Indo-Pacific region. France is considered a resident Indo-Pacific power due to its overseas territories such as Réunion Island.
Both countries support multilateralism, strategic autonomy, and reforms in global institutions like the United Nations. Their cooperation helps ensure regional stability, maritime security, and protection of international trade routes.
France also plays a key role in strengthening India’s engagement with the European Union in areas such as trade, technology, and security.
Static GK fact: The Indo-Pacific region connects the Indian Ocean and Pacific Ocean and is crucial for global trade and geopolitics.
Expanding economic and innovation collaboration
The India-France Year of Innovation signals a shift toward deeper collaboration in start-ups, digital economy, scientific research, and advanced technologies. Both leaders engaged with innovators, business leaders, and researchers to promote investments and joint projects.
This initiative strengthens India’s position as a global innovation hub and reinforces France’s role as a major technology and defence partner. It also supports India’s vision of becoming a global leader in emerging technologies.
The partnership reflects long-term strategic trust and shared commitment to technological progress and global stability.
Static Usthadian Current Affairs Table
India France Innovation Year Strengthens Strategic Technology Partnership:
| Topic | Detail |
| Initiative launched | India-France Year of Innovation |
| Leaders involved | Narendra Modi and Emmanuel Macron |
| Strategic partnership established | 1998 |
| Key focus areas | Artificial intelligence, defence, innovation, digital technology |
| Defence cooperation | Procurement of 114 Rafale fighter jets |
| Manufacturer of Rafale jets | Dassault Aviation |
| Indo-Pacific importance | France is a resident power with overseas territories |
| AI cooperation | Joint participation in AI Impact Summit |
| Innovation objective | Strengthening start-ups, research, and technology collaboration |
| Strategic importance | Enhances bilateral technology, defence, and economic partnership |
